Torkeld Cottage, Garlieston, Dumfries & Galloway The cottage booked was not clean: the toilet was discoloured and could not be cleaned with bleach, the mattress was extremely stained. There was no way we would have used the bed. The whole place was tired and rather shabby. The garden was secure for our dogs, but the owners five dogs were on the other side of the fence! When we spoke to the owner, he suggested we go home and apply to Sykes for a refund. We contacted Sykes who asked us to take photos which we sent. We then left at 5.30pm - with nowhere to stay and 300 miles from home. Sykes have been no help, closing the complaint within 24 working hours, refusing to consider any form of refund. Needless to say we will not consider using Sykes again.