BADMINTON players in Barnoldswick said they are disappointed their 50-year club history has ended because renovations to the hall in which they play have forced them to move.
Tom Procter (32) said he had been playing in the hall at Rolls-Royce Leisure from the age of six, and felt members of the badminton club had not been consulted over plans to lower the hall’s ceiling later this year.
He said: “It used to be run by Benny Clarkson of Wellhouse Road , an ex-Rolls engineer, and has been the growing place of many a local talent.
“To this day it is used as a badminton hall, representing the Rolls team in matches in the local leagues.
“It is a sad day that the management has decided to lower the internal roof to a level that would mean sports could no longer be played there, and therefore the ultimate closure of well over a generation of a sporting club.
“Some members have been playing there for 50 years. It is a real shame considering all that history.”
Rolls-Royce Leisure manager, Catherine Oldfield said: “We are committed to providing members and visitors with a leisure club that is welcoming, modern and safe. Replacing the ceiling in the Merlin Suite, that is primarily used for banqueting functions including civil ceremonies, is part of our ongoing programme to maintain and improve the facility and services provided.
“We have been in regular contact with John McGrow from the badminton group and have kept him fully updated with regard to our plans.”
Members of the club said they will relocate to Kelbrook.