Bicknacre Memorial Village Hall is set to close after 25 years owing to a lack of volunteers willing to take over the day-to-day operation of the hall.

David Godfrey, clerk to Woodham Ferrers and Bicknacre Parish Council, the trustees of the hall, said the council has been given 'no alternative' but to give notice of their intention to close the hall completely by the end of 2001.

In a letter to users of the premises, Mr Godfrey highlighted the irony that the Priory County Primary School, opened concurrently with hall, was celebrating its Silver Jubilee with various activities and festivities.

"It is truly a sad reflection, that at the same time, the parish council has to take this unfortunate action with the village hall, as it too should be celebrating its 25th anniversary," he said.

"The parish council wish to apologise sincerely for this regrettable action, but there appears to be no alternative. The village hall cannot function without support and there seems to be little interest within the community.

"The last AGM for instance held during the tenure of the previous committee was attended by the then chairman, secretary and treasurer. That was the total attendance."

Mr Godfrey explained responsibility for operating of the hall was passed by default to the parish council at the end of last year after the village hall committee resigned following a dispute with the neighbouring school.

"The hall is currently operating with just a booking secretary. No invoices have been issued for several months and no income has been received," he added.

The parish council will try and honour 2001 bookings for as long as possible, but this cannot be guaranteed and no more bookings are being taken.

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