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End of the line as budget
cutbacks cripple Hobbits
A HORNCASTLE based after-school club has been forced to close because of crippling cutbacks in funding.
The Hobbits Club, which had charitable status and was based at the town’s Community Primary School, will not open for the new term next month.
The closure affects more than 30 children who used the club on a regular basis while three members of staff have lost their jobs.
Organisers called a special general meeting last week in a bid to stave off the threat of closure.
However, Hobbits chairman Rob Jones admitted the club had reached the end of the road.
He said: “Unfortunately, a decision was taken at the special annual meeting and we have no alternative but to close. We will not be open at the start of term.
“Special thanks go to all of our children, their parents, staff, committee members and everyone else who has supported us over the years.”
The Hobbits was popular but hit problems when several organisations slashed funding, including Lincolnshire County Council and East Lindsey District Council.
Speaking before the special meeting, Mr Jones appealed for help and hoped a benefactor would come forward at the last minute.
He stressed the club had done everything possible to raise funds themselves and had organised several events, including a sponsored sky dive and a Three Peaks challenge.
At the time, he said: “I feel desperately sorry for our members of staff because they have been absolutely brilliant.
“I also feel sorry for the parents who have come to rely on us but I don’t know what else we can do.”
Mr Jones stressed he did not blame the organisations which had cut back on funding and added: “Things are very tough and we aren’t the only organisation struggling.”
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Weather for Horncastle
Friday 24 May 2013
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