A “DEVASTATED” Kidderminster man says he’s lost around £8,000 after his wedding plans were cancelled by a hotel now housing asylum seekers.

The 26-year-old, who did not wish to be named, was set to marry his partner of eleven years in three months-time, celebrating at the Gainsborough House Hotel on Bewdley Hill for the reception. 

It was announced earlier this month by the Home Office and Wyre Forest District Council that the hotel would now be used to house asylum seekers.

The disgruntled groom-to-be said the hotel will refund them the cost of his family’s stay at the hotel after signing a contract, but wants compensation for other bookings that are now defunct, such as a horse and carriage, which cost him over £3,000, and other wedding arrangements.

READ MORE: Bewdley's Heath Hotel earmarked for asylum seeker home

They were supposed to be married at St. Mary and All Saints' Church on June 18. 

“We had everything planned,” he told The Shuttle.

“I booked this place last year.

“I’m devastated. My partner’s upset over it. We are going to lose a lot of money over it. 

“We’ve been together since I was 16 and she was coming 17 – eleven years this year.”

Hotel director Rob Kang offered his “sincere apologies” on behalf of the Gainsborough House Hotel.

He said: “It’s very unfortunate. There are going to be some consequences but inevitably we can’t give exclusive use of the hotel to the Home Office without cancelling future bookings.

“We are in a difficult situation as well.

“Anyone with a grievance – come and talk to us. We try to communicate the best we can.

“If they speak to us – we are very happy to have a conversation.”

Many residents praised Kidderminster’s “compassion” following the announcement hotel would be used to rehouse asylum seekers, whilst others questioned its cost to the taxpayer and whether more could be done to help the homeless.