Holidaymakers have told of their anger after the collapse of a major travel firm at the weekend.

Many are among some 16,000 stranded abroad after Turkey and Greece holidays specialist Goldtrail went into administration last Friday. Tens of thousands due to travel within weeks are affected.

Dozens due to fly out from Belfast International Airport were left high and dry on Saturday when the flight was cancelled.

Larne couple Gary Weir and Gillian Kelly’s holiday is in ruins.

Ms Kelly said: “I was absolutely devastated when I realised we had booked with Goldtrail. They didn’t even bother to send us an email. We were really looking forward to a break in Turkey and our busy work schedules mean we can’t go at any other time.

“We are getting a refund for our accommodation, but have to wait to hear about the flights.”

Four flights were expected to fly to Aldergrove from Turkey today,

and as peak holiday season approaches more people will face problems. UK air industry regulator The Civil Aviation Authority is working to alleviate the chaos.

Kusadasi-based MD of Eastern PromiseTurkey holidays Steven Gorman is helping those affected.

“Since Saturday morning I have 16 clients who booked through Goldtrail unable to get back to Northern Ireland when they are supposed to, with three of them due home this week.”

He added: “We are doing the best we can for people. The CAA and the major holiday companies have been very good.”

He is based in Turkey from May to September and only sees his family for two weeks at this time.

“My wife, nephew and youngest daughter were able to reschedule, but I will not get to see my eldest daughter and her boyfriend as there are no alternative flights.”

What to do

• If you booked a holiday with Goldtrail contact your travel agent.
• If you booked directly with a credit card contact your card company, but if you paid by other means telephone 084 4856 2585.
• There is no set timescale for refunds — expect to wait at least a few months.
• If you are abroad and experiencing difficulties contact the Civil Aviation Authority on 020 3441 0846.
• A local source of help is the Consumer Council. Contact them on 0800 121 6022.