Save our centre (From Warrington Guardian)

Save our centre

A POPULAR community centre could be forced to close unless more people volunteer to help run it.

Sandymoor Community Association members hope to rally support at a crisis meeting this Sunday amid fears that classes and courses enjoyed by hundreds could be jeopardised.

"Its not a problem with usage - the centre is packed out most evenings and weekends - or with funding. It's the lack of active community support," said treasurer and committee member Steve Lishman.

"I've been involved for seven years and in every newsletter we've sent out, we've begged residents for help.

"But whether they think we're council-funded when we're not or whether it is just a general lack of community spirit, not enough people are willing to give up a bit of their time."

At the latest annual general meeting (AGM) pleas by the existing half-dozen committee members for others to get involved went ignored and this year's annual summer fun day has been cancelled.

Karen Speers, who helps daughter, Carla, run dance and theatre classes, says it would be a 'massive shame' if it closed.

"That would be the end of her business," Mrs Speers said. "If the facilities went, there's nowhere else in the area for her or her pupils to go."

The £650,000 centre, given to the community by landowners English Partnerships, also hosts Tumble Tots sessions and martial arts, keep-fit and weight watchers classes.

Anyone able to spare a few hours of their time, whether it's helping fill in grant applications, organise fundraising activities or with the general maintenance, should turn up at the centre in Pitts Heath Lane on Sunday at 3pm.