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CZECH tourism officials have appealed for industry help to convince holidaymakers the country is “open” after this summer’s floods.

The Czech Republic is also desperate for UK tourists to return over the next three months when the destination is traditionally popular.

Officials could not say how much income had been lost following the fall in tourist numbers, but acknowledged there was a perception that hotels, restaurants and attractions were still closed after August’s floods. The Czech government estimates the disaster cost £2 billion.

Iveta Schoppova, UK and Ireland director of the Czech Tourist Authority, said: “We have no extra money for marketing but are organising educationals for operators and agents in October. We are also talking to operators to help us with our Flood Appeal and  incentives to travel.”

Cresta is already donating £5 per booking to the appeal, while CSA Czech Airlines is being encouraged to offer discounted rates.

Schoppova said all attractions, including the Charles Bridge and Old Town, had reopened and the Hilton and InterContinental would reopen next month. The Four Seasons is due to reopen early next year. The only disruption is to metro and riverside businesses.

The country is particularly worried visitors will not book for the annual concert, festival and Christmas market season.

CSA is trying to woo travellers to Prague with a £75 return ticket from Stansted, along with £45 one-way fares. Traffic is down 10%.