More than 440,000 passengers are expected to travel through Gatwick airport during the Easter holiday period.

Thursday is expected to be the busiest day with about 93,500 passengers scheduled to fly.

More than 82,000 are expected on Easter Sunday.

The most popular destinations are Malaga, Tenerife, Orlando and Faro as holidaymakers head for early spring sunshine.

Clowns, jesters, mime artists, magicians and cartoon characters are being laid on to keep passengers entertained during the rush.

Managing director Roger Cato said: "The growth in the long-haul market and the continuing strong performance of low-cost operators such as easyJet have helped boost traffic figures.

"We will continue to work closely with airlines to help make their business a success at Gatwick and ensure travellers through the airport have a bright and enjoyable experience."