A businessman facing a backlash from customers has defended his stance not to refund clients who booked day trips through his Vision Getaways business.

When asked about becoming the director of Odyssey Travel Ipswich and not refunding customers from Vision Getaways, Simon Howell said he had done as much as he possibly could

He said: “Nobody will be refunded for daytrips they have booked – holidays, yes, but daytrips, unfortunately not.

“If they paid by credit card, customers can go to their credit company [for refunds].

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“I was responsible for any debts that were incurred at Vision Getaways – those debts were insured by Tower Gate insurance, and in some cases they are yet to pay out.”

He added: “If the managing director of M&S liquidated M&S, there’s nothing to stop him becoming the managing director of Sainsbury’s – unfortunately, people have to work and they have to get jobs.

“I can’t do more than I’ve done. I shouldn’t have to defend myself because I’ve got a job,” he said.