Worthing Business Closure Leaves Customers Without Deposits

A Worthing bathroom retailer has closed permanently following the sudden death of its director, leaving customers out of pocket and orders unfulfilled.

Bathscene, located on Worthing High Street, ceased trading after a medical incident on August 4 resulted in the death of a 53-year-old man at the premises. Emergency services cordoned off the area, and an air ambulance landed nearby. Sussex Police confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. Following the incident, Bathscene entered liquidation due to the unexpected loss of its former director.

FRP Advisory, managing the liquidation, announced the company is set to enter a creditors’ voluntary liquidation in January 2025. A spokesperson stated that Bathscene, which employed four staff, had been working on winding down operations, including returning stock and contacting customers. However, customers such as Georgina Hodgson, who placed a £1,300 deposit for a bathroom, have been left without refunds or products.

FRP Advisory has encouraged affected customers to explore recovery options and has provided contact details for assistance. Meanwhile, Sussex Police confirmed that the coroner has been informed, and the case has been closed with no further investigation required.