A CLUB given to the people of Williton by a local benefactor at least 50 years ago is facing possible closure from mounting debts.

The sports and social club in Long Street has struggled to survive in tough economic times but has been breaking even for some time.

However, unpaid VAT demands, utility bills and brewery costs have left the team of volunteers who run it with debts totalling £20,000.

And now they are appealing to local people to show their support for the not-for-profit organisation by offering donations or loans, taking up membership or for local organisations to use the club's facilities for events or activities.

Treasurer Andy Lyder said: "The club is breaking even and has done for some time but due to previous debts and commitments, we are struggling to meet the demands of these financial commitments.

"It would not be scaremongering to suggest that the club has a real possibility of having to shut its doors without the support and patronage of the local community."

Mr Lyder said the management team could see a way forward but not without the local community's support - "financial and hands-on".

The club currently has 240 members who pay just £7 a year for membership or £4 for senior citizens and 16/17-year-olds.

It was given to the people of Williton by the Wyndham Estate, originally as a reading room.

Mr Lyder said in addition to the debts, the management team - who are all unpaid - would like to undertake around £20,000 of renovations to improve the facility.

"We're writing to all our current members and basically we are just appealing for any sort of help.

"It would be absolutely tragic if the club had to close."

Anyone wanting to help, with a donation, loan or by donating items for a fundraising auction due to be held later this year, can contact Mr Lyder on 078306 38838 or club chairman Mike Farmer on 07779 043197.

Organisations wanting to use the club facilities for anything from bingo or youth activities to exercise or dance classes should ring 01984 632643 and leave a message.

The club is available from 8am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and from noon to 5pm on Fridays.

Meanwhile, the neighbouring Royal Huntsman pub closed for business this week.

The Long Street pub, which has had mixed trading fortunes in recent years, is owned by Enterprise Inns.

A spokesman for the company told the Free Press that it was currently considering all options for the pub.

"No firm decision on its future has been made," said the spokesman.