EARLIER this week, Wincanton was left shocked as the landmark Holbrook Manor & Club venue announced it was closing permanently, with immediate effect.

A huge refurbishment project at the estate – a popular wedding venue, gym and hotel – had hit problems due to ‘inflation pressures’ and ‘delays’, bosses said, meaning the business was ‘unable to continue’.

Staff have been left hoping for an offer of alternative employment with Hillbrooke Hotels, which owns the Wincanton venue, or facing unemployment.

The news has also stirred memories among former employees – employees like Steve Lee, who worked at Holbrook House for 15 years, before leaving around 2016 to take up a role with Wincanton Town Council.

“It’s so sad to see it close,” said Steve, who was spa club operations manager. “It was a magical place to work, full of local history and grand staff.

“And for so many people, the club is a big part of their lives, from a wellbeing point of view.

“My main concern now is for those who, at very short notice, have lost their jobs.”

He added: “There are some really good guys there I’d highly recommend. Loyal, hardworking and passionate.

“It would be great to see if any businesses have any vacancies, or can help.”

READ MORE: Holbrook House in Wincanton closed ‘with immediate effect’
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On social media, tributes have been pouring in for the venue – and the staff.

“(I’ve) been a member for years and very, very sad for all the amazing staff there, who have been so wonderful,” wrote Poppy Sparkes.

Holbrook Manor & Club has closed ‘with immediate effect’. Picture: Holbrook House Facebook

Kirsty Andrews wrote: “So sad – so many happy memories there. Sad for all those who have lost their jobs.”

And Lara Cook wrote: “So sad. The gym was great and the staff lovely. Such a shame after all the renovation work.”

Announcing the closure, a Hillbrooke Hotels spokesperson said: “The property was undergoing a major refurbishment and was due to open as a full-service hotel at the end of October, but sadly due to inflationary pressures, continued delays to the project and development factors beyond our control, we are unable to continue.

“This has been a difficult decision and we recognise the impact this will have on our team and the members of the club but sadly the current economic circumstances have conspired against us.”

Anyone with a gift card for the venue will be contacted in due course, the firm added.