A BRANCH of the Royal British Legion which has been at the heart of a village for six decades is to close – at the most important time in the Legion’s calendar.

The poignant closure of Pinvin and District RBL at the start of this year’s Poppy Appeal is because of dwindling membership numbers and the need to find £28,000 to modernise its Main Street clubhouse.

The club made just £29 profit in the first six months of 2009, and despite attempts to reach the wider community, it was unable to attract new members.

The branch will still be represented at this year’s Remembrance Day parade in Pershore and a final event will be held at the club on Saturday to mark its closure. Debbie Mason, club treasurer and member for 20 years, said: “It’s going to be a really good night but a very sad night, too.

“We would like to thank past committees and members for all their support of the years and we’re very sad it’s had to come to an end.”

Pinvin and District RBL was founded in 1949 after members of the Fladbury branch were encouraged to form smaller breakaway groups to attract more people to the movement.

In 1953, an old US Army hut was bought for £110 and erected by volunteers as a club house which became a social hub for Pinvin residents, offering crib, bingo, live music, darts and youth clubs, and a venue for celebrations including birthdays and weddings.

By 1976, its popularity had grown to such an extent that a new clubhouse was built with a large dance hall, bar, snooker room, lounge area and skittle alley. Founding member and club president Cyril Phillips said the club had always been full of life.

“He said: We used to have live music and all sorts – it’s been alive for years. It’s such a shame to see it dying off but it’s a sign of the times.”