Yasmin Qureshi, MP for Bolton South East, has reemphasised the concerns of wedding venue businesses after they were left in the dark for much of the lockdown.

She chaired a round table discussion on July 9 with wedding industry representatives and a cross-party group of MPs about concerns of the future for wedding venues and hospitality.

The industry is said to be worth £10billion which doesn’t just include the venues, but caterers, planners, florists, entertainers and more.

Businesses raised concerns about about the future of the industry that has gone through its busiest period ­— the summer ­— without any income, all the while having to issue refunds and pay other overheads.

Ms Qureshi said: “The wedding industry is really struggling right now.

“The industry is full of hardworking small businesses who are passionate about what they do and care deeply about their clients.

“To hear how many may go out of business and lose their livelihoods was devastating. They need clear guidance and a timetable today so they can plan ahead.”

Mark Dawson from the Association of British Wedding Businesses said: “It was good to see the support from cross party MPs on the plight of the diverse wedding industry and the urgent need for a roadmap.”