The company says bookings for this Christmas and New Year are up 11% on the same period last year. New Year breaks have already sold out at three of its seven camps.

Pontin’s says advance bookings of its low-cost breaks for summer, 2009, are already 20% up on the same time last year – and the group says it can grow still further, despite the challenging economic climate.

Chief executive Ian Smith said: “The new management team is targeting growth through maximising the untapped potential within the business. Our strategy is to ensure we deliver outstanding value for money, and this has clearly contributed to the increase in bookings.

“I am also pleased to report that the increase has come from both repeat customers and new customers alike.

The first Pontin’s camp was founded by Sir Fred Pontin in Somerset in 1946. The company is known for its blue-coated entertainers, with alumni including actor and singer Shane Richie and sports presenter Helen Chamberlain.

Pontin’s was bought by investment company Ocean Parcs in March for £46m, and the headquarters was moved to Pontin’s site at Ainsdale.

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