Disappointed holidaymakers, left stranded by the collapse of Britain’s third largest tour operator, vented their anger today as they raced to find a ticket for alternative flights before the weekend.

Scores of XL Leisure customers had no idea that the company had fallen into administration until they arrived at Gatwick airport this morning and were confronted by airport officials.

Graham White, an estate agent from London, said: “We didn’t find out about it until we got here. I’m pretty annoyed.”

Kim Lazarow, who was travelling with Mr White to the Greek island of Skiathos for a week, said: “Everyone’s been going online booking flights as soon as they found out so I’m not sure what we’re going to get.”

XL Leisure fell into administration early today after failing to secure a rescue package.

Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly said everything possible was being done to get stranded holidaymakers home.

She said in a statement: “I have been holding discussions with my officials about this situation and both they, and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), have been monitoring developments and putting rescue plans into action.

“The CAA have a wealth of experience in dealing with these sorts of situations and are putting systems in place to get people home, while the Government stands ready to provide the CAA with operational assistance should they need it.

“The industry has reacted well to this collapse of a major tour company and are assisting the CAA with the recovery plans to ensure that affected passengers are repatriated as soon as possible.”

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