A housing association has backtracked on a decision to close off residents' access to a community building - but not in time for a coronation party. 

The hall, in Fiske Close, in Mercer Close, Worting, was closed by Anchor housing association after its insurance ran out.  

Residents of the close, which has 34 flats for over 60s, had been using for hall for more than 13 years, regularly hosting events such as parties, bingo, and afternoon tea.

They were surprised when they approached the building for afternoon tea, to find it had been locked. 

A sign outside said: "The garden room is not currently covered by insurance. Please do not enter until appropriate insurance is in place."

The doors were locked and electricity and heating in the building turned off.

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Residents arranged insurance for the building, although the agreement was not made in time for them to host a coronation party.

Hazel Hatton, 86, who lives in Fiske Close, said that residents were left upset, but they were relieved it could be used in future.

She said: "We were really upset we couldn't use our community hut, especially with the coronation.

"We have had many happy events here over the last 13 years.

"This upset many residents as we rely on our weekly get-togethers to help with our wellbeing, although we are glad we could come to an arrangement."

Operations manager for Fiske Close, Rowena Hindle, said the housing association would have liked to help residents celebrate the coronation but could not do so without insurance. 

She said: "The Garden Room is legally owned by Fiske Close Social Group, which is responsible for insuring and maintaining the space.

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"While the Garden Room was unprotected by insurance cover, we reminded residents of their responsibility to ensure the appropriate insurance was in place.

"The insurance process has been completed and we are pleased residents will be using the space for celebrations and future events.”