Wedding fears after banqueting firm pulls out of Lindhurst contract

A statement from catering firm Sodexo said it will be withdrawing from its contract in January, leaving fears that blushing brides to be will be forced to look for new reception venues.

The company said it will honour all parties booked to the end of 2014, and will offer refunds for weddings and other events that have been booked for next year.

A statement issued by the company said: “It is with regret that in January Sodexo will withdraw from its contract to provide catering services at the Lindhurst Rooms at Mansfield civic Centre.”

“Christmas parties and events booked prior to January are unaffected by this and will continue as booked.

“We are offering those with bookings from January a full refund of any deposits paid and assistance with finding alternative local venues.”

Coun Roger Sutcliffe, portfolio holder for resources at Mansfield District Council, said: “The council is currently considering options for the letting and re-use of the Lindhurst Rooms.”

Sodexo has not given reasons for the closure. But the news has left many Chad readers angry, with some complaining that the venue was very expensive, while others said it was outdated.

One customer, who asked not to be named, told Chad: “I think it’s a disgrace to cancel wedding contracts at such short notice. Most other venues will be booked solid for the first half of the year, so this will have a very bad effect on a number of local couples.”