MEMBERS BATTLE

TO KEEP FACTORY SOCIAL CLUB GOING

10:00 - 15 November 2007

Members of Midsomer Norton's Alcan Social Club have been told by the site owners of the factory, to which it is attached, that it may not stay open beyond June 2008.The club, known to residents by its old name of Mardons, is fighting for existence after the closure of the Alcan Packaging plant.

It has been negotiating with the Alcan company to retain the club premises, where more than 700 people meet for social events and charity work.

Originally, the building was gifted to Alcan employees in lieu of salary increases during a government wage freeze.

The current lease on the site was signed in 1997 and expires on December 31 this year.

Brian Nairn, former managing director of the factory and now club chairman, said: "We are in the process of signing the next, and what Alcan state is the final, lease, which only keeps the club going until the end of June 2008.

"Alcan has stated in writing that it will not renew the lease again."

Mr Nairn added: "Clearly, this is unacceptable to the pensioners, whose salary sacrifice funded the club in the first place and to the members who have fought for the retention of what they know was a gift from the original owners."

The club has asked Wansdyke MP Dan Norris (Labour) for advice and support, and he has agreed to meet its officers.

Alcan management has not commented on the lease issues, but states on its website that it has a policy to invest in the communities it serves.

Members plan to continue regular Saturday night entertainment while they campaign for the club's survival.

Mr Nairn said: "We had a very successful charity Hallowe'en night, packed with families from the former Alcan community."

This year, £1,300 was raised for the Dorothy House Hospice at Winsley through the club's charity work.

Skittles with the Paulton and District League and a fun series will continue through the winter.

Line dancing also continues to be a regular club feature.