Funding issues have meant that East Cowes Conservative Club is to close its doors for the final time at the end of this week.
The decision to close was made following a Special General Meeting (SGM) held at the club on Tuesday night (10th September).
Money troubles have been cited as the main reason for the closure with the costings of the day-to-day running of the club – as well as reduced revenue from the bar – taking their toll.
There are around 180 paying members at the club with some having used the club for over 60 years.
A few years ago, the premises – located on Clarence Road in the town – was sold to the Association of Conservative Clubs (ACC) so that immediate capital could be raised. Since the sale, Island Echo understands that multiple donations have allowed the club to continue to run, but now the coffers have dried up.
Unfortunately, a small handful of committed staff members are set to lose their jobs.
A spokesperson for East Cowes Conservative Club has said:
“We would like to thank all patrons and staff – both past and present – for their support over the years.
Article continues below this advertisement “Unfortunately, keeping the club open wasn’t financially viable anymore.
“This is not a decision that we have taken lightly, but something had to be done. We are truly sorry.”
East Cowes Conservative Club is to close for the final time on Friday evening (13th).
This is the second like establishment to close on Clarence Road this year following the closure of the Victoria Tavern back in January – as previously reported by Island Echo.
Oh, the irony.
Hoist by their own petard.