Disney World terror: Brits warned of Florida travel risk this summer

FAMILIES planning the trip of a lifetime this summer are being warned as officials investigate claims the Florida nightclub shooter targeted Disney World.

By Margi Murphy

STAY SAFE: Holiday watchdog advises sticking to its travel plan to stay safe this summer

Omar Mateen killed 49 and injured 53 in the worst mass shooting in US history over the weekend.

He opened fire on partygoers as they danced in gay nightclub Pulse, in Orlando as he held two rifles aloft.

And it is believed that popular family destination Disney World was to be his next port of call. 

"The shocking events in Orlando, the holiday Capital of the USA, should serve as a timely reminder of the need for all travellers to think on their travel plans and the need to become your own travel risk assessor," holiday watchdog director Frank Brehany warned.

ISIS have since claimed responsibility for the attack but detectives are yet to establish a clear reason behind the tragic bloodbath.

The FBI revealed that they had interviewed and freed 29-year-old Mateen on three separate occasions over "terror links".

Investigators are now searching security worker Mateen's phone and laptop for any sign that he planned to target Disney World or neighbouring Downtown Disney – a popular British holiday destination.

Security officials at the theme park have also been tasked with reviewing footage that could place Mateen at any of the attractions.

FBI Director James Comey said investigators were "still working through" whether he had scouted the theme park as a possible terror target.

Mr Brehany, of HolidayTravelWatch, advised: "The LGBT community in particular enjoy a wide variety of popular destinations such as Reykjavik, Sitges, Gran Canaria, Mykonos, Ibiza, Barcelona and Amsterdam to name a few.

"Many of these same destinations are also popular with many other communities of traveller."

Those considering changing their plans may be able to use the pre-departure rights of "significant change" under the Package Travel Regulations.

But those determined to make the flight this summer should heed a safety plan, he added.