Bride's anguish as wedding venue closes

Claire Stanley, of Portchester, was to wed fiancee Paul Smith at the Manor Barn in Buriton in August.

But along with up to a reported 100 other couples she has been told the wedding cannot go ahead.

She said: ‘We booked approx last September 2014 and paid our deposit of £2,500.

‘We then booked onsite accommodation of the stable cottage and valentine suite for a further £360 in November 2015.

‘All us future brides and grooms have now had to find alternative venues, or having to plan what to do next, some with very short notice before their wedding.’

Owner Bob Camping told the BBC nearby residents had made complaints about the venue and caused it to close.

He said the barn will host weddings up until April 10 and then repay any cash for weddings booked after that date.