Car hire demand rising as staycations increase?

London car hire may have grown in popularity last year, as figures have revealed the extent of the increase in Britons holidaying closer to home.

According to VisitEngland, a rise of 18 per cent was seen last year, with families opting for this type of break over a visit abroad accounting for much of the change.

Chief executive of the tourist body James Berresford welcomed the "new-found popularity" of England as a destination, observing economic pressures in 2009 contributed to the rediscovery.

"However, this research shows that there is a more permanent shift in attitudes to holidaying at home," he added. "It’s a hugely rewarding experience."

Demand for car hire in London may remain high as 90 per cent of those who took a staycation last year plan to take at least one such break in 2010.

It comes after Mr Berresford described England’s beaches as a major attraction for domestic and international tourists.

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