The future of a Shropshire town’s long-established Chamber of Commerce is hanging in the balance after a “disappointing turnout” at a meeting to try to save it.

Bridgnorth Chamber of Commerce may be forced to close after more than 60 years because of dwindling numbers. Group leaders have blamed the growing influx of national store chains in the town centre on the chamber’s recent struggle.

They held a meeting for members on Thursday night but president Norman Cottrell today admitted the future of the group was now unsure after a poor turnout.

It will now hold an annual general meeting in April to decided whether to axe the group altogether.

Mr Cottrell said: “Very few people actually turned up to the meeting to discuss the chamber’s future, which was disappointing.

“We will now have to hold a formal meeting with all the paid-up members to see what we are going to do.

“As far as I am aware we have about 20 to 30 full members. I would love to continue with the group but we will have to see.”

Last week Mr Cottrell voiced his concerns about the small number of family- run businesses now left in the town.

He had hoped the crucial meeting would prove there was still an interest in having a chamber but its long-term future is now in major doubt.

The group’s constitution says that it can only fold at an annual general meeting if voted for by its fully paid-up members.

Representative from Shropshire Chamber of Commerce were at Thursday’s meeting after expressing concern the Bridgnorth group could fold.

By Steve Todd