Residents in Baschurch could lose their village hall and with it a number of community groups because a new chairperson cannot be found.
The last chairman stepped down in May due to other commitments and now hall officials have warned the venue, which has been in the village for 20 years, could close.
As well as the lack of a chairperson the hall is also in need of around £25,000 to carry out an overhaul of facilities. The hall requires a new boiler, heating, kitchen and insulation and officials are worried people may stop using the hall if it is not modernised.
The hall is used by a wide variety of people from toddlers to the elderly including Baschurch Pre-School, the youth club and Creaky Chairs – an exercise group for the elderly. It is also used by the parish council, brownies and Baschurch Flower Club.
Paul Arnold, outgoing chair, said: “I wanted to step down last year but agreed to do another year because there was no one else available. We’re now looking at whether we can carry on long term.
“If the hall closes it will be the end of some of the community groups particularly groups for elderly people who would not be able to get to another venue.”
Mr Arnold added that at the moment the hall was only breaking even and that to carry out improvements the hall must first make a profit.
Anne Howls, clerk of the parish council, said: “It would be an awful shame to lose it.”
For more information about the vacancy telephone Paul Arnold on 01939 261039 or Rachel Davies on 01939 260139.
