Families hoping to enjoy a trip abroad before the end of the year have been issued an urgent passport warning.

The British Embassy and The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) shared the warning as families prepare to travel ahead of the October half-term.

As Covid travel restrictions were relaxed last week, families will be hoping to take advantage.

But they are being warned that passports will need at least three months left before the expiry date if they wish to travel.

The rule change came into force on January 1, 2021 but many people in the UK will be travelling abroad for the first time since the new rule came into force post-Brexit.

Warning to people booking holidays as Covid travel restrictions ease

The update from FCDO warned:  "The rules for travelling to European countries changed on January 1, 2021.

"British nationals can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa.

"This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.

"Check your passport is valid for travel before you book your trip, and renew your passport if you do not have enough time left on it."