Sark tourism 'very important to Guernsey'

Sark Shipping reported more than 50,000 passenger journeys during 2014, up 2,000 on 2013 figures

The closure of most of the hotels in Sark could affect tourism in the rest of the Bailiwick, VisitGuernsey has warned.

The closure of the four hotels run by Sark Island Hotels was revealed on Thursday.

A VisitGuernsey spokesman said: "A thriving tourism industry in Sark is very important for Guernsey tourism."

He said it played an "important part in our unique offering to visitors to the Bailiwick".

The spokesman said the group was "very concerned at the knock on effect that this is likely to have on visitor numbers to Sark".

Sark Tourism's Committee has repeatedly said the island remains open with its two hotels, 10 guest houses, 16 self-catering properties and two campsites.

David De Carteret said the closures did not seem to be about business as tourism numbers were up

David De Carteret, director of Jersey Tourism, said the announcement came as a surprise after Sark's appearance in the Island Parish series led to a successful summer.

He said he hoped what appeared to be a political row between the government and the owners of the hotel group would be resolved in time for the 2015 season.

Sark Island Hotels is part of Sark Estate Management, owned by Sir David and Sir Frederick Barclay who live on the neighbouring island of Brecqhou.

The hotel closures have been blamed on a lack of a customs post in Sark meaning visitors have to travel to the island via Guernsey, Jersey or Alderney to clear customs.