Ballafesson Hall closure a 'shock' to volunteer group 

Club 'in limbo' after earlier than planned sale

Volunteers who were working to keep a community hall open in the south of the Island say a decision to sell the building earlier than planned has come as a ‘shock’.

The Ballafesson Community Club had been told it would have a year - from June - to make Ballafesson Hall viable otherwise it would be sold on the open market.

But volunteers say the Methodist Church has changed the timeline and the facility will be closed and put up for sale on 30 September.

Pat Harper believes the club has been 'left in a limbo' following the announcement but has chosen not to 'run away' from the issue. 

She adds that a number of community organisations which use the hall have been left 'saddened and disgusted' at how the committee has been treated.

The club - which also includes Helena Clarke, John Radcliffe and Maureen Dadd - have organised a final coffee morning on the 28 September which will be free of charge. 

Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper has been speaking to Mrs Harper:

Arbory and Rushen Commissioners, Eddie Teare and the Methodist Organisation have been invited to respond.