One of Brighton’s biggest party house companies has ceased trading, leaving both visitors and landlords out of pocket.
Brighton Holiday Homes emailed guests yesterday to tell them that the company had ceased trading and not to travel to Brighton.
It also advised them to contact their credit or debit card provider or travel or household insurance to claim money back that way.
No details of any administrators were given.
The company, which was popular with hen and stag parties, is the third wedding-related business to go bust this month, following Choccywoccydoodah and the Coach House.
One of those out of pocket is Sarah Elliott, who booked Gatsby House, a five-bedroom property with beds for 22 people in Charles Street, Kemp Town, for her best friend and future sister-in-law Jennifer Magil.
She said: “It’s terrible. Jennifer already had her wedding location cancelled and had to change venue now this.
“She will be having no hen weekend as people can’t afford another one so close to the day.
“She’s been in tears since yesterday. I feel guilty as I booked it and lost the money.
“We just wanted a special weekend for her. Now we will prob have to have a rubbish night out in town with no trip away. We wanted the beach and fish and chips. It’s so sad for her.
“Worst of it all is the company won’t answer the phone. They haven’t even announced on their website they’ve gone into liquidation, just a small email from them. There must be lots of disappointed people out of pocket.”
The email, sent yesterday lunchtime, said: “It is with great regret that due to the challenging economic conditions Brighton Holiday Homes has ceased trading with immediate effect.
“Unfortunately, this means your booking is no longer valid.
“You will not be able to access the property you have booked, so please do not travel to Brighton unless you have alternative accommodation.
“Any activities booked are also no longer valid.
“Please see below for details of how you may be able to make a claim for a refund through your credit or debit card provider.
“You should also check your travel insurance and house insurance as you may have cover through one of these.”
We too are out of pocked, absolutely awful! If anyone fins out the administrators are please post on here!