Members of a sports and social club based at the former Allscott sugar beet factory near Telford are being urged to have a drink to help keep it alive.
The plea follows a big drop in takings in recent years, with an uncertain future for the club since British Sugar closed the plant in January with the loss of 117 jobs.
Committee members say the bar is the main source of income - and the club’s survival depends on people spending money there.
The club, which has 300 members, has facilities for cricket, bowls and soccer.
It also provides a bar, bingo, karaoke and social meeting place for people.
At their annual meeting in April, members set up a new committee with the aim of going it alone without British Sugar’s financial support. But the club is already trying to boost income, with bills looming for rates, fuel and electricity, and members are meeting tomorrow to discuss its future.
A statement issued by the committee in the club newsletter says: “We believe the club could remain open for some time yet as it seems sugar will be stored on site for a while.
“However, to remain open and maintain the excellent facilities, we do need to ensure we make enough money to cover costs.”
The committee says several options have been discussed, including looking into charitable status.
“In the meantime, we have arranged several events at the club to increase interest. The bar is our main source of income and it is crucial that we all make the effort to use it.”
Social events include a 70s and 80s disco on June 30, an 80s and 90s disco on September 1 and a race night on July 21.
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