THIS weekend will see thousands of people from across the country and beyond pour into Minehead for one of Butlin’s ‘Big Weekends’ despite the coronavirus outbreak in the UK.

The influx will start today (Friday) when the holiday centre’s doors will open for the three-day event – and it looks to be almost fully booked with just one chalet left open for reservations on Wednesday.

Many of those going to the Big Weekend will be using the 28 bus route from Taunton for the last leg iof their journey.

Another three-day Big Weekend is scheduled next weekend, starting on March 20.

The company is providing a website update on the current coronavirus outbreak – the most recent as the Free Press went to print yesterday (Thursday) was dated March 5.

It said: “At Butlin’s, the health and safety of our guests and team is our number one priority. 

“Whilst the risk of coronavirus to our guests and team is low, we recognise that the situation is potentially unsettling and we would like to reassure you that we are closely monitoring the developing situation and following Government guidance to ensure you can enjoy the holiday you deserve. 

“We’re open for business as usual and will provide an update should any changes occur to any of our breaks.”

It advises checking the gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus website, and any Big Weekenders with symptoms or concerns to call the c0ntact centre team on 0330 100 9743 .

And it asks that visitors to Butlin’s resorts take the Government advice on washing hands regularly and maintaining good hygiene practices.