BA is stopping its South West flights in October

British Airways (BA) is due to halt its Plymouth and Newquay services to the London airport in October.

Business leaders in the region are worried about the loss of the connection.

But two airlines, Air Wales and a new operator being started by the owners of Plymouth Airport, Sutton Harbour Holdings, have expressed interest in taking over the slots.

Air travel is vital to the success of the region South West Regional Development Agency

Mike Anderson, from Devon, is one of many regular business air travellers who are now increasingly worried about who is going to fly between the South West and Gatwick.

He said: "At the moment, there's just total silence.

"I can't be the only one concerned. There must be thousands of businessman who are trying to plan onwards into the new year who don't know what's going to happen after the end of October."

It is nearly eight weeks since BA confirmed it was abandoning the daily air service to London, widely regarded as underpinning important parts of the region's economy.

The importance of improving air links with the capitol is emphasised by the South West Regional Development Agency.

The agency said: "We believe improved air travel is vital to the success of the region. Businesses are looking for better communications to improve competitiveness."