MEMBERS of the Bromsgrove Society will have to pay a modest increase in their subs from June 1 next year, the first such rise since 1987.

Treasurer John Rowlands told the society's annual meeting that overall their financial position is strong but rising prices meant subscriptions did not now cover day to day running costs and with income from investments falling, a rise was necessary.

After the change, a full member will have to pay £7, presently £4.25, joint membership will be £10 (£7.75), corporate £25 minimum (£15 minimum), junior £1.50 (unchanged), pensioners/students £5 (£3.25) and pensioners/couples £7 (£4.50)

Mr Rowlands said that present subscriptions rates are currently one of the lowest in the region for similar organisations.