Lapland company 'to be wound up'

Visitors said the park was nothing like the marketing on its website In pictures

The company behind the controversial Lapland New Forest park is to be wound up, the BBC has learnt.

Dorset Trading Standards told BBC South that Victor Mears, the sole director of Lapland New Forest Ltd, had taken the decision to appoint a liquidator.

It means thousands of disgruntled customers may not receive a refund for tickets that cost up to £30 each.

The Christmas attraction on the Hampshire-Dorset border shut last month after thousands of complaints.

Dorset Trading Standards said 5,000 customers had sought advice on obtaining a refund.

Some, who have written to the company's mailing address in Brighton, have had letters returned unopened.

Ivan Hancock, Dorset Trading Standards divisional manager, said: "Members of the accounting and consulting firm Grant Thornton UK LLP have met with Victor Mears.

"Mr Mears has asked Grant Thornton to take steps to place his company into creditors' voluntary liquidation (effectively close down the company and handle any claims).

"We understand that two partners at Grant Thornton will be appointed as joint liquidators in due course.

"Once they have control of the company, customers will have the opportunity to lodge a claim against Lapland New Forest Limited."

He added that Grant Thornton would be writing to all customers who booked tickets online within two weeks - this is the majority of people who bought tickets.

For those customers who did not book online or who do not receive formal notification in the post, the proceedings will be advertised in local press.

Mr Hancock added: "Trading standards is continuing to fully investigate the matter and will take any appropriate legal action against individuals involved with the limited company."