A BIG increase in the number of tourists crossing the Channel has been forecast by Hythe-based travel firm En Route, which has launched its biggest-ever programme of continental short breaks and day trips.

"There has been a growing demand for holidays which do not involve air travel," said En Route principal Joanna Ames. "Our programme includes many more holidays with coach, train or car travel options. We expect our passenger numbers through local gateways to exceed last year's 25,000 total."