Run-down club says repairs cash is vital

The six pensioner clubs around Sandwell were saved from the axe last year after a lengthy battle, and organisers promised to find a way to increase the number of users. Now Brian Monk, chairman of Britannia Sons of Rest, in Birmingham Road, Blackheath, says he worries the building is even legal because of a broken fire door, and he has a long list of repairs to do.

"For four months I have been waiting for money to fix the fire door," said Mr Monk, of Enfield Road.

"I've got a lot of plans to improve the place and bring in new members. We've got dominoes, cards and cribs, but without money it's very difficult.

"I'm always being told that it's on its way and the door will be fixed, but it's not come yet."

Mr Monk added: "I want to re-felt the snooker table, but that is going to cost about £350. Apparently, I need to buy radiator covers so people don't burn themselves and I need to spend about £8,000 re-doing the toilets so they can fit wheelchairs.

"I have all these meetings, but nothing ever gets done"

Last year, the council wanted to shut three Sons of Rest Clubs, including Blackheath, Great Barr and West Bromwich, but had a change of heart after a vigorous campaign.

Four other Sons of Rest clubs were also facing the axe if they could not cover their own running costs also had the threat of closure lifted in October: Foley Street. in Wednesbury, Eli Corbett, in West Bromwich, Lees Memorial, in Great Bridge, and Home Lea. in Tipton.

When it was announced they would remain open, the council said it would look at what it could do instead to support the groups.

Sandwell Council's cab-inet member for culture and leisure, Councillor Linda Horton, said: "I will take all of the comments on board and speak to the officers involved."