The manager of an adventure park in France has been taken into custody after refusing entry to 150 Israeli children, authorities said.

The group of holidaymakers, aged eight to 16, had been holidaying in Spain before travelling to France, where they were prevented from entering the park in the southern Pyrenees-Orientales region despite a long-standing booking.

It said the site manager was detained on Wednesday due to "discrimination based on religion in the offering or provision of goods or services”. He remains in custody over the incident, which can be punishable with up to three years in prison.

A statement on its Facebook page on Wednesday read: “Following yesterday’s severe storm, we must close the park tomorrow, Thursday, August 21, to conduct a complete inspection of our facilities. This inspection is essential to ensure your safety and to welcome you in the best possible conditions on your next visit. Thank you for your understanding and see you soon in the air.”