Tui announces record UK profits just as Thomas Cook faces financial woes

Europe's biggest travel operator, Tui Travel, has reported record profits in the UK despite the struggling economic climate.

The announcement comes just weeks after its rival Thomas Cook declared it was facing severe financial problems because of deteriorating sales.

Tui's pre-tax profit for the year to the end of September was £144million, compared with a loss of £73 million the previous year.

However, the tour operator, which operates Thomson and First Choice, said that bookings this winter were lower than last year, primarily due to the unrest in North Africa, which has affected demand.

Customers are instead choosing holidays in destinations such as Marjorca and Menorca, according to Tui chief executive Peter Long.

Have you been affected by Thomas Cook's troubles? Are you booking with Tui for next year? Tell us your stories below.

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