TOURISM chiefs last night urged people not to let the bitterly cold Easter weather ruin their fun ahead of a crucial weekend for business.

With the first holiday weekend of the year looming businesses are hoping for a boost after a disappointing 2012 summer season due to unseasonably wet weather and the negative impact of the London Olympics.

Easter looks likely to be blighted by yet more freezing temperatures but hopes remain high that people will shun simply staying indoors and instead venture out to attractions and the high street.

Speaking to the EADT last night, education and business minister Matthew Hancock said the weather was making things tough for traders and attractions alike.

“We could all be forgiven for looking out the window at the moment and deciding to crank up the heating, slump on the sofa and watch TV. This is not what we were expecting from spring – this time last year we were enjoying temperatures of almost 20C. But we should resist,” he said.

“Small, local businesses are at the heart of our communities and already face enough challenges without freak outbreaks of snow and cold weather. Easter is almost here and many of you, like me, will still need to stock up on chocolate eggs for the kids, food for Easter Sunday and presents for visiting parents and in-laws.

“So I would encourage you to wrap up warm and head to your nearest high street to support local businesses.”

But experts are predicting the long winter will have an impact on Britain’s ailing economy, with some even warning of an unprecedented triple-dip. In December 2010 a widespread and prolonged period of bad weather hit quarterly output by a significant 0.5%. A similar drop in the first quarter of this year would plunge Britain close to recession again.