The future of Highbridge Social Club is in jeopardy due to a funding crisis – just as it gets ready to mark its 100th anniversary.
The long-running club in Church Street has said this week that its future is being threatened by severe financial difficulties.
John Akers, its Chairman, told Burnham-On-Sea.com that unless more funding and members can be found, the club’s future could be in doubt.
“We just don’t get the trade here that we once did and yet the bills keep coming in which is putting a big strain on our finances,” he said.
“It’s our 100th year of being in business this year and we would like to see it running for many years to come. We need local people’s support in becoming members and using the facilities.”
“Despite all the efforts of our committee to minimise costs, last year we made a trading loss for the first time and we can’t continue like that for long.”
The club is a base for several darts, pool and skittles teams and it also offers other facilities, including meeting and function rooms.
“We are having to take one week at a time at the moment because trade has fallen off like this for several years. It would be a huge loss to Highbridge if it were to close and for as long as I’m here it will stay open.”
“We are looking at a number of options to attract more members, including possibly becoming a sports club in the furture.”
The club has approached Sedgemoor District Council for ‘hardship relief’ from its rates bill which amounts to approximately £850 a month.
Sam Taylor, Sedgemoor District Council spokeswoman, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Applications for hardship will be considered by the SDC Business Rates Panel on Thursday 15th May.”
“We understand the Social Club are considering changing their format and perhaps becoming a sports or recreational club in the future?”
“SDC discretionary relief policy allows other reliefs to be granted for these clubs, and any application would be considered at the appropriate time. Businesses and organisations are always welcome to contact Sedgemoor’s Revenues team for friendly and helpful advice on Rate Relief.”
Membership of the club costs £5 a year and is open to men and women. For more details, ring 01278 782446.
