Many analysts have overstated the extent of the downturn in the global property market, an expert has claimed.

According to Darren Styles, chief executive of Brooklands Group, people in the UK are still very interested in buying a residence overseas.

This is despite the impact of the credit crunch on many housing markets and the negative media coverage that has come about as a result.

Mr Styles said: "It's a tribute to the strength of our brand and the resilience of our industry."

He added that much of the negativity about the effect of the credit crunch on the overseas property sector has been exaggerated.

Mr Styles was speaking after it was revealed that more than 13,000 people visited the recent A Place in the Sun Live show in London, which was organised by Brooklands Group.

According to research by the event's affiliated magazine, Spain and France are still the two most popular foreign markets among British buyers.