The Sid Vale Association (SVA) has acquired the former 1922 club building in Church Street, Sidmouth.

The building, located conveniently close to the current SVA Sidmouth Museum will become the SVA's new headquarters. The association says that internal alterations will be minimal and, where needed, will be undertaken over time and in due respect of the listed nature of the building. From the outside, the building will remain as-is.

They will begin moving from their current HQ at 36a Fore Street to Church Street over the coming months.

Ann Tanner, Chair of the Sid Vale Association said: "The SVA is sorry that the 1922 Club had to close, as it has a notable history within the town and was much loved by many in the Sid Valley. However, given that closure of the 1922 Club was inevitable, the SVA are grateful to the 1922 Club Trustees for their positive approach in offering the SVA the opportunity to acquire and retain the building as a historic feature in the town.

“I, and all the SVA Trustees are thrilled at being able to acquire the 1922 Club building. Whilst we are sorry that the 1922 Club had to close, the SVA is proud to take over the stewardship of this fine building and preserve its historic features. It will provide the SVA with much-needed accessible space to conduct our SVA activities and store our ever-growing museum antiquities for years, possibly generations, to come. Our firm intent is that the 1922 Club will continue to be a community building valued by the residents of Sidmouth”

Gary Turner, SVA Treasurer and project lead said “The SVA is obviously very pleased to have been able to acquire this building and secure its future for the Sid Valley. I am very grateful to the current Trustees of the 1922 Club who approached the negotiations for our acquisition in a very positive manner.”

Ann Tanner concluded “With the acquisition completed, we now look forward to settling into our new ‘headquarters home’. As we take over the stewardship of this fine building, we have many exciting plans as to how it may benefit both the SVA and our wider community.