The company went into administration just before Christmas affecting 40,000 holidays and putting 250 jobs at risk.

Discussions have continued at length over the weekend to save the remainder of the staff. About 182 staff will lose their jobs.

Administrator Paul Clark said there had been talks with several interested parties and there were promising signs.

'Deal sought'

Mr Clark added: "We've had more than 30 companies express an interest in Travelscope and detailed discussions with four or five of them.

"It is with those we hope a deal will come through.

"I am also looking at ways to allow passengers due to travel in the week starting 8 January under my control as administrator."

One hundred and eighty-two staff were told about the job cuts on Friday.