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Events companies and catering businesses have stepped up after the company behind a popular wedding venue went into administration.
Brides-to-be were left unsettled last month after a wine tasting evening and Burns Night do were suddenly cancelled at St Augustine’s in Westgate-on-Sea.
As questions about the future of the venue swirled, yesterday it was confirmed that an administrator had been apppointed for St Augustine’s College Ltd, which runs the site.
Since the sudden news, several companies in across the country have presented their services for couples who may be impacted by the news.
Baypoint Events, who organises weddings and other gatherings at Baypoint Club in Sandwich, expressed their sympathies.
“If you have been affected by the St Augustine’s situation, we understand how challenging this situation must be for those impacted,” a Facebook post said.
“If you have proof of deposits paid for a corporate event, wedding, gathering or party, we would be happy to help by subsidising any additional costs to support you in securing our venue.
“While this will depend on our availability, we will do our best to accommodate you.”
The Racing Greyhound pub in Ramsgate also put forward their function room as free to hire.
The Jolly Farmer in Manston High Street said they were “saddened by the news” and could "only imagine the upset and stress it has caused”.
Lesters Pub & Restaurant in Ramsgate Road, Margate and Grove Ferry Inn in Canterbury put forward their venues on social media.
“We know how stressful and disheartening it can be when plans change unexpectedly, especially when it comes to something as important as your wedding day,” the Grove Ferry Inn commented.
“If you’ve been impacted and are still looking for a beautiful, stress-free venue, we want to offer a helping hand.
“Our riverside venue can host your celebration if your chosen date is available, we’re helping to waive various costs and we’d be honoured to support you during this time.
“We’re a community, and we believe in lifting each other up when times get tough.”
Photographer AG Studio, based in Margate, put a statement out on Facebook, saying it was a “sad day for Thanet”.
They added: “We did expect this to happen really but you always held some hope that this was not going to be the case.
“St Augustine’s has filed for administration and our hearts go out to the couples who now have the added stress of sorting out their dream day from scratch.
“This is also a tough time for suppliers who will be greatly affected by this news.”
On Friday it was confirmed that accountancy firm Kreston Reeves has been appointed as administrator.
A more detailed statement on the development is expected in the coming days.
Sarah Deadman, who had planned marry her partner of almost six years, Peter Smith, at the venue on March 15, told KentOnline this week: “We have been planning it for years and we have been saving for three years so we could afford it. It has cost us £6,500 for the venue.”
“There are less than seven weeks until the wedding.”