A British holidaymaker says competition for poolside sun loungers at a hotel in Salou became so intense that parents sent children ahead to claim them. Cait Fennel said the daily scramble prevented her family from using the pool for the first three days of their holiday, illustrating continuing concerns over informal sunbed reservation practices at busy resorts.

Fennel, 42, travelled from Liverpool with her husband and five-year-old son for a week-long stay from 5 August at Hotel Best Oasis Park. She said guests began queuing from about 8.45am for a 10am pool opening, sometimes leaving bags in line or using the hotel gym as an alternative route; footage showed children running towards loungers and adults following with towels. After three days, she joined the queue herself, while her family otherwise used the beach during the reported £3,000 trip; the hotel was contacted for comment.