A number of venues from Thanet and further afield have stepped forward to help couples affected by St Augustine’s in Westgate going into administration.
BayPoint, near Sandwich, Thorley Taverns, The Racing Greyhound, Jolly Farmer, Lesters, Grove Ferry Inn and more are all offering to help those who now have to search for a new wedding venue.
AG Photography Studio in Margate is also helping clients who have been impacted by the administration as is Novo Bridal in Westbrook.
A message from Baypoint Events says the company will help subsidise those who have lost deposits.
It says: “If you have been affected by the St Augustine’s situation, we understand how challenging this situation must be for those impacted.
“If you have proof of deposits paid for a corporate event, wedding, gathering, or party, we would 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.
“As a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, Baypoint is committed to supporting our community. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and see how we can assist you during this time [email protected] ”
A message from Thorley Taverns says: “Really sad news to see a lovely local venue close. Anyone now looking for employment can email [email protected] with their CV and we’ll do our best to help.
“Anyone seeking a new venue please reach out to our dedicated teams at Pegwell Bay Hotel and The Pavilion Broadstairs.”
Administration and what’s next
Yesterday (January 31) it was finally confirmed that St Augustine’s College Ltd – which runs the venue in Westgate- is insolvent.
Sadly, a letter to affected customers says it is ‘uncertain’ whether there will be the funds to reimburse them.
The letter from the joint administrators says: “The company is insolvent and unable to pay its debts.
“Regrettably the venue hire part of the business has ceased operations and the company will not be able to host your upcoming event.
“If you have paid funds in advance then unfortunately you will have an unsecured claim against the company.
“As administrators our aim is to sell the property and make distributions to creditors if funds allow.
“However, at this stage it is uncertain whether there will be enough funds to distribute to unsecured creditors.”
The administrators will send formal letters to all those affected which will include a claim form as well as outlining what steps will be taken next.
Staff at the venue are also owed wages.
St Augustine’s was last on the property market in 2023 when agent Sidney Phillips was advertising the freehold with an asking price of £2,700,000.
St Augustine’s College Ltd, registered to the 125 Canterbury Road address, is listed on Companies House as its “principal activity of the company (as) a wedding and conference centre with facilities for fully serviced offices.”
The last accounts lodged are for the year up to July 2023 with the next accounts due this April.
Operating profit for 2023 was £25, 274 with the number of employees listed as 18. However, the accounts also show a loss on ‘ordinary activities before tax’ of £162 441.
St Augustine’s Holdings is listed as having ‘significant control’ of the St Augustine’s College company. St Augustine’s Holdings Ltd is listed as a dormant company. Compulsory strike-off action was announced last July but was then discontinued last August.
St Augustine’s College filed notice to appoint an administrator yesterday.
Splendid effort, Thorley Taverns and all others who have shown such admirable initiative in extending your support to the staff and patrons of St. Augustine’s following its most unfortunate closure. Your kindness and dedication do you great credit. You’re welcome to visit Camberwick Green.