Parkdean Resorts has issued an apology after a recent incident at an Isle of Wight holiday park, where several Polish guests were asked to leave.
The incident on June 28 involved a large group of motorcyclists gathering near the entrance of Thorness Bay Holiday Park, leading to a standoff with staff and police intervention.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary were called to Thorness Bay after motorcyclists blocked Thorness Lane.
According to park staff, the bikers had separate bookings rather than a group booking, which breached company policy. As a result, they were turned away at the entrance.
The County Press, which covered the incident live from the scene, reported that some bikers claimed they had already stayed at the park the previous night.
They alleged that they were told to leave because people with "Polish-sounding names" were not being allowed on site.
While initial reports estimated the group to be around 150, the bikers disputed this, stating there were fewer than 50 and that any road blockage was unintentional, caused by their inability to enter the site.
Nearly a month after the incident, Parkdean Resorts issued an apology following extensive discussions with Simon Selby, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Poland, and subsequent internal and external investigations.
Phil Roberts, regional director at Parkdean Resorts, addressed the situation: “Firstly, I would like to apologise for some of the confusion and perceptions that unfortunately resulted from this situation.
“As a family holiday park, we pride ourselves on creating amazing memories for everybody who visits us, and we welcome all guests at Parkdean Resorts, regardless of gender, religion, race, or ethnic background.
“It's an ethos which most definitely includes our valued Polish customers, many of whom have been happy repeat customers for decades.”
Parkdean Resorts enforces safety policies that restrict certain groups, such as stag and hen parties or large groups during specific times of the year, from staying without prior arrangements through the group booking team.
These measures are outlined in the terms and conditions agreed upon by customers at the time of booking. Failure to adhere to this process can result in cancellations.
Mr Roberts clarified: “I do want to make clear that in no circumstances would a group booking be refused because of the race or ethnicity of any member of the group.
“On June 28 and 29, a large group arrived at Thorness Bay Holiday Park. They hadn't booked through our group booking team, and the team at the park were unprepared for their arrival.
“They cancelled the group booking and asked the group to leave - as they have the right to do, and which is our standard process where there has been a serious breach of our booking terms.”
The situation escalated quickly, leading to confusion, with some guests not part of the group being incorrectly asked to leave.
Mr Roberts acknowledged: “I also recognise that the team on the park while doing their best to resolve matters, may not have explained properly to the group why their booking was being cancelled.
“The fact that customers were left feeling they had been unfairly treated is in complete opposition to Parkdean Resorts' aims and objectives.
“I do want to sincerely apologise for the confusion and for the cancellation of the holidays of those not part of the group and any unpleasant experience.”
In response to the apology, Simon Selby said: “I hope those involved are happy with this, although they are, of course, able to take matters further if they wish.
“The police will also no doubt independently continue their investigation regarding the legality of how ‘ethnicity’ featured in the incident.”
Parkdean Resorts has committed to reviewing its procedures to prevent similar situations in the future.
See Mr Roberts' full apology in the post below
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