Cyprus 'a celebrity holiday hotspot'

Cyprus is becoming increasingly popular among celebrities taking holidays to get a break from the limelight at home, according to the national tourist board.

The Cyprus Tourism Organisation said the island 'lures the stars' with its year-round sun and short flights from the UK.

Paphos has been the luxury holiday destination of choice for the likes of Denise Van Outen and Rio Ferdinand, who have stayed at the same five-star resort in the coastal city.

Pissouri Bay has welcomed Sex and the City star Kim Cattrall, while Prince Harry dined at a luxury property in the area while on military dive training.

Music fans might be able to follow in the footsteps of some of their favourite artists during a winter holiday in Cyprus this year, with the likes of Rod Stewart, Bryan Adams, James Blunt and Mick Hucknall all visiting Paphos recently.

Christine Bleakley, David Seaman and Barbara Windsor have also taken time out on the island, while Peter Andre, who has Cypriot heritage, owns a villa just outside Larnaca.

The Cyprus Tourism Organisation pointed out that Brits taking holidays in the destination during the autumn months can still enjoy temperatures of up to 30 degrees C.