Record number of Britons heading for Easter sun

LONDON, Apr 13 (Reuters) A record number of Britons were taking to the air today in search of Easter sunshine, tourism chiefs said.

The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) said it estimated a record 2.3 million holidaymakers would abandon Britain over the weekend because of the chilly temperatures.

With Easter falling later in the calendar this year, many Mediterranean destinations were proving popular with some resorts already open.

ABTA said Spain was the favourite country for departing Britons, with the Canary Islands and Tenerife particularly popular.

Cyprus was another top choice, along with breaks to European capital cities such as Rome and Paris while sunseekers were also heading to more exotic destinations such as the Caribbean.

More than a million passengers were due to pass through Britain's main airports between today and Bank Holiday Monday, with 214,700 people expected at London's Heathrow today alone.

Another 80,000 will leave the country by Eurostar rail.

For those remaining in the UK, the Highways Agency said roadworks at 27 spots on motorways and major roads would be removed over the Easter period.

Motorists can find out the latest traffic information at www.highways.gov.uk/trafficinfo Those staying at home can also expect typically unpredictable weather over the Easter holiday.

The Meteorological Office said nearly all parts of Britain would see some dry and bright weather -- but there were risks of showers throughout the weekend.

REUTERS SHB PM1527