Scots couples have been urged to know their rights after Airth Castle went bust leaving many's wedding plans up in the air.
The popular Stirling venue, operated by firm Airth Castle Hotel Limited, confirmed they were ceasing trading yesterday with 26 full-time staff and other part-time workers set to be made redundant.
Several brides claimed they had been kept in the dark over the news after hotel bosses failed to officially notify them of the closure.
Advice Direct Scotland has now issued guidance to make people aware of their rights as consumers, or redundancy if they work there.
Colin Mathieson, spokesperson for Advice Direct Scotland, said: “This announcement will have left staff and customers with questions about what this means for them.
“Consumers with holidays, weddings, and other events booked will be wondering what they can do to get their money back.
“If the booking was made as part of a package, or through a third-party travel agent or company, you should contact them in the first instance to see what measures are in place.
“Those who paid with a debit card, can make a chargeback claim to their card provider.
“If you made the purchase on a credit card for over the value of £100, you could make a claim to your card provider using Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.
“Those unable to claim back through Section 75 or chargeback, could look out for more information from the administrator handling the liquidation."
Advice Direct Scotland also advised workers of their rights.
Colin added: "For those concerned about losing their jobs we have put together a guide to redundancy, specifically what employees can do if their employer enters administration.
“It’s important to remember that help is available, and anyone who is worried can contact one of our specialist advisers for free, impartial and practical advice.”
Lisa Askot, who is due to get married to her partner Scott Thomson at the venue on April 14, told the Daily Record she found out the company had gone into liquidation after reading a post from another bride on Facebook.
The 28-year-old said: "I didn’t believe it at first but I read a post from someone on the Airth Castle Bride page. I couldn't get through to anyone at the hotel, so I called their sister hotel to confirm.
"We're just totally gutted. This is where we have always wanted to get married. It was our dream venue.
"It’s been really upsetting. I was in total disbelief which has caused a lot of anxiety.
"It has killed my excitement for a day I’ve been looking forward to for so long."
Lisa and Scott, 31, have already paid the hotel £2500 for their big day, with the final payment later this month.
Lisa added: "We were due to make the final amount in a fortnight, but to be honest I’d rather have it paid and have my venue than be in this situation."
A statement from Airth Castle Hotel Limited said: "The coronavirus pandemic had a major financial impact on the operating company, as the hotel was forced to close for an extended period.
"Then, as the energy crisis unfolded and supplier costs increased, the company's level of debt reached unmanageable levels and we took the reluctant decision to place the company into voluntary liquidation.
"Regretfully, around 26 full-time staff, together with a number of part-time staff, will be made redundant."
People can seek help in a number of different ways: freephone 0808 164 6000; and online, web chat and email at www.consumeradvice.scot.
Advice on employment and redundancy rights from advice.scot by contacting 0808 800 9060 or by visiting www.advice.scot.
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