Norfolk couple in line for compensation after holiday illness

Posted 31/05/2010

A couple from Norfolk will be able to claim compensation from a tour operator after enduring a ‘holiday from hell’.

Francis and Beverley Mayes booked a holiday to five-star hotel the Gran Bahia Principe in the Dominican Republic with travel company First Choice, the Norwich Evening News reports.

However, not long after their arrival in May 2009, Mr Mayes contracted dysentery and salmonella and was admitted to hospital.

He was dangerously ill and had still not recovered upon his return to the UK, despite spending an extra week abroad having treatment.

The Mayes decided to take legal action against First Choice for poor levels of hygiene at the hotel and the firm has now admitted liability for the illness.

It is though that the couple and others who fell ill at the same time may be eligible for a significant amount of personal injury compensation.

Mr Mayes said: “I just had to take legal action because when you stay in a four or five star hotel, you don’t expect to end up in hospital.”

Last month, the South Yorkshire Star reported that almost 700 people are suing the same tour operator after falling ill at the Holiday Village Hotel in Turkey between April and October 2008.