THE historic Evesham Working Men’s Club, which has been a fixture in the town for more than 130 years, shut its doors on Friday amid money troubles.

The popular club in Merstow Green which was established in 1879 and is housed in a building with parts which date back to the 17th century, was closed after two crisis meetings were held with members.

At the meetings, on October 13 and 16, members were given four options for the future of the club and voted for a company voluntary arrangement, which allows them to pay creditors over a fixed period and if the creditors agree to the plan, then trade can continue.

The other options were taking the club into voluntary liquidation, selling it at a loss or for a member to put forward the money to save it.

Bob Breward, who has been a member for 40 years, said: “It has been a part of my life.

It’s a family meeting place. I have seen four generations or families growing up there.

“That’s been eroded over the last four years. They have not encouraged or promoted the club. I think it’s closed for the wrong reasons.”

Aline Cornish, who has been going to club for a decade, said members felt their only option was company voluntary arrangement.

“I am quite appalled at what has happened,” she said. “It’s so sad. For anybody who is passionate about the club and Evesham it is such a shame. I have had several occasions there, including a wedding anniversary.

Members can do nothing about it. The club is now shut temporarily until the room at the back is sold and the debts can be paid.”

A notice on the club’s website reads: ‘The Evesham Working Men's Club is closed temporarily awaiting planned refurbishment to commence. Hoping to reopen in due course. Watch this page for future updates.’ Two planning applications to demolish part of the building and build flats and houses are being considered by Wychavon.