ONE of the UK’s oldest social clubs in Basingstoke is desperately seeking donations for survival.

Sherborne St John Social Club, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year, needs an estimated £100k for major improvements, including the urgent need for facilities for disabled people and energy-saving renovations.

The historic club was formed in 1903, starting life as a Reading Room for the working men in the village to encourage their perusal of uplifting and enlightening works.

Spokesperson Louise Mccarthy said it is of historical and cultural importance to maintain the club.

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It’s been providing a place for social interaction for families in the village and beyond. Its membership grew over the years with many of them being lifetime members.

The club currently supports activities for special needs groups, old age pension groups, and young people in Basingstoke, with events such as skittles nights and quizzes as well as being a bookable venue for parties and other events.

However, the club’s membership has started to decline and for the club to continue and grow, the facilities need major improvements.

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Ms Mccarthy said the club is urgently looking for grants, local funding, and donations.

She said: “The club urgently requires funding in order to bring it up to modern standards so it can continue to support all members of the local community.

“We estimate that £100k will enable this historical social club to be brought up to date to continue with the great community work its vision is now set out to deliver.

“We are in need of your support to enable an urgently needed programme of renovation to take place for the survival of this community hub.”

If you would like to contribute to the rejuvenation of the social club, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/louise-mccarthy-5.