Bedford Guild House has announced it will be closing this month after 60 years serving the Bedford community.
In an announcement today on the Facebook page they said their last day open would be the 26 August.
The charity, based on Harpur Street provided classes, social events and activities for older people in the town and in rural communities across the Borough.
They announced they were facing difficulties in November last year after income fell during the Covid pandemic and the loss of statutory funding but costs stayed the same.
Read: Urgent £20,000 fundraiser launched to save Bedford Guild House
In December they were given a reprieve thanks to an influx of donations from individuals, the Frank Branson Trust, the Panacea Society and others which provided enough funds to continue into 2022.
In an email announcing the reprieve, they said this had allowed them time to look at a recovery plan to consider their long-term future because of a decline in users due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Reaction
The news has been met with sadness by local people and users of the service. Comments on their Facebook announcement described what the charity meant to them.
“[I] spent many a happy evening dancing in the hall upstairs and have seen Reg Challinor teach soo many children and adults how to dance over the years. This is very sad, it was always such a great place, clean and tidy and supportive x,” said one.
“I enjoyed the Silver Jewelry course. Made some nice things. I’m sure people will really miss it,” said another.
One added, “thank you for the memories and your dedication over many years. You will all be missed. Xx”
We have approached Bedford Guild House for comment.
