TRUSTEES of the Barlow Memorial Institute in Edgworth are desperate to find funding for the building as its roof has started to fall apart.

It was announced at the last meeting of the North Turton Parish Council that the rear of the building had to be cordoned off due to possible danger from falling debris.

The situation is not effecting business at the community centre but John Mather, chairman of the Barlow trustees, said he has his fingers crossed that an answer to the worsening problem will arise soon.

He said: “The roof desperately needs fixing, but this is going to cost a lot of money so careful planning is needed.

“We have looked into getting heritage lottery funding and we have a meeting planned with Blackburn and Darwen Council so I’m really hoping something good will come out of that.

“It’s an ongoing process at the moment and it’s going to take time but I am confident that we will get the help that we need. Lottery funding will require some more thought as they will not just fund the roof.”

The trustees have also looked into crowd funding and online donations, but this will only make up a small portion of what is needed as it is estimated that replacing the roof will cost around £230,000.

The Barlow has been open since 1909 and Mr Mather said after all that time it was not a surprise that the building was suffering from wear and tear.

He added: “The fact the area has been cordoned off is just a safety precaution and the volunteers are still doing a marvellous job. It’s managed very well and the trade is good.

Plenty of events are still going on at the Barlow, one of which is on September 18 when the centre will be welcoming musicians Vicki Swann and Jonny Dyer.

Their performance will showcase interpretations of old songs alongside original self-penned tunes and new contemporary songs.