Market Drayton Guides' hut appeal falls short of funding
A four-year campaign launched by a Guide group to replace its headquarters has suffered a setback after having major bids for funding turned down.
Market Drayton District Guides has raised just under £33,000 towards a scheme that could cost about £273,000.
The group has been unsuccessful in obtaining grants of £100,000 from The National Lottery and about £150,000 from the Armed Forces Community Covenant Grant Scheme.
It says its building in Elizabeth Court is damp and too small, and a new one is needed to meet the growing demand from youngsters wanting to join.
The guides have been trying to raise money for the new building for the last four years and have held several of their own fundraisers, including quizzes and raffles.
Jane Evans, chairman of the committee which manages the hut, has written a letter to parents and supporters of the group to update them on their progress.
The letter said: "Four years ago a group of leaders started fundraising towards a new building and over the next two years raised £8,500, which included donations from local community groups.
"As the leaders were already fully committed running the units it was then decided that a formal headquarters committee was required to move the project forward."
It added:
"Planning permission was granted in October 2013. A quantity surveyor's report estimates costs for the project could be in the region of £273,000."
The letter adds: "We put together grant bid applications to The National Lottery and the Armed Forces Community Grant Scheme.
"The committee, although disappointed, are committed to building a new guide headquarters in Market Drayton. What we really need now is information about any other grants or available funds which we can apply for relating to our particular project. After paying all professional and planning fees we currently have just under £33,000 towards our new building."
Anyone who could help can call 077177 12315.
