THE future of Beer Social Club is looking promising following a packed meeting last month outlining the financial difficulties it was facing. As previously reported in the Herald, it was recently announced that the club must reduce its overdraft by �5,000

THE future of Beer Social Club is looking promising following a packed meeting last month outlining the financial difficulties it was facing.

As previously reported in the Herald, it was recently announced that the club must reduce its overdraft by �5,000 by September 11.

To keep afloat, takings per week must exceed �2,000 but they were falling far short of this figure.

An extraordinary meeting was held in which the club committee told members they must 'use it or lose it'.

And only a month later it seems the heartfelt plea has done the trick.

Andrew Parkhouse, vice-chair of BSC, told the Herald: "Since the meeting the club has had some busy weeks. Beer Regatta week was very good for us as well as the week after.

"Takings have increased to acceptable levels and the level of support has been very good.

"Our treasurer has been on holiday for the last few weeks so I am unsure of the exact financial and bank situation. However, going by the reports from the steward the last few weeks have been very good."

After the meeting all 260 members were sent letters requesting donations of �20 and the response has been hopeful.

Mr Parkhouse added: "We have had some donations but I am unsure what amount has been received. I will know more next week after the committee meeting."

A number of solutions to remedy the financial problems of the club were discussed during the extraordinary meeting and it was agreed to increase subscriptions and the price of drinks.

A task force was also formed to devise a 'return on investment' business plan.

The next stage in putting Beer Social Club back to the centre of the community is a 'Beer Festival', which will take place on Saturday, September 5 and Sunday, September 6.

Mr Parkhouse said: "We will have a good selection of beers and ciders as well as live music."

The festival will feature music from Top Shop Bob, Mike and Debbie plus others and there will also be a barbecue.

Another boost to the takings is the 'Club Week', which ends tomorrow (Saturday) and it is going well according to Mr Parkhouse.

A quiz night, hosted by Dave Hutchings, will be held tonight from 8pm and the finale of the week is a 'Race Night' from 8pm tomorrow.

* For more information on Beer Social Club visit www.beersocialclub.co.uk.