A SOCIAL club running in Worcester for more than 50 years may have to close unless more people support it.

The Barbourne ex-servicemen’s club has been running at a loss for more than a year but organisers say that situation cannot continue indefinitely.

They blame the impact of the recession for a drop in the number of members who visit the club, in The Moors, Barbourne, on a regular basis.

Committee member Mike Hemming said: ”We’ve seen a really big downturn in the last six months.

“The numbers are tailing off. People haven’t got the money to spend to come out and enjoy themselves.

“We made a loss last year and we are on target to make another one this year.

“We can’t keep going down that road. We need more support to keep the club going.”

So far, the club has used its financial reserves to keep operating but Mr Hemming said money was quickly running out while overheads were steadily increasing.

About 300 people are registered as members of the club, which hosts live singers or bands and quiz nights. However, only 60 or 70 of those regularly use the family friendly club.

Mr Hemming, aged 48, of Canalside, Barbourne, urged existing members to return and appealed for more people, who do not have to be ex-servicemen and women, to join up.

He has organised tribute nights and bingo nights to try to draw in the crowds and said the club was also available for hire on weekdays for weddings, parties and functions.

Next year, club members plan to raise money for a nominated charity and have chosen Help for Heroes, the organisation which raises money for wounded soldiers.

Membership costs £8 and £4 for seniors with members paying £1 entrance fee, while non-members can visit the club by paying a £2 entrance fee.

Forthcoming events include a bingo night on Friday, and a fancy dress Halloween party being held on Saturday.