HOTEL bosses say strict new quarantine rules should help boost their trade as more holidaymakers choose a staycation this summer.

It comes as Boris Johnson has warned there are signs of a second wave of coronavirus in Europe, following the Government’s decision to impose a 14-day quarantine on travellers from Spain.

With forecasters predicting a mini heatwave this week, hotel bosses hope it will draw visitors to our seafront.

Robert Cammidge, 62, owner of the family-run Camelia Hotel on Southend seafront said they are hoping for more guests as bookings are currently down.

He said: “I believe people will want to stay home and have holidays in Southend, rather than going abroad.

“I feel it could help our hotel industry and Southend economy as people will want to stay here after considering having to quarantine and the risk of being stuck abroad.

“People will think they can come and have a good time here in Southend.

“I think it is good news for our economy and hotel trade and it’ll help as we still have staff on furlough and bookings are down.”

The UK is advising against all non-essential travel to Spain, including the Balearic and Canary Islands.

It also removed Spain and its islands from the list of countries which are exempt from the 14-day quarantine rule.

However, Janet Hills, 67, owner of Cobham Lodge Hotel in Westcliff said balmy weather is

still essential to bring the tourists in.

She added: “I think it could help us but we do need the good weather as well, but the forecast is good this week.

“I do believe people will want to stay in the UK and Southend for holidays in August and September due to what has been going on.

“I do think people will not want to go away and anything that helps trade will be very welcome.”