MEMBERS of a popular croquet club which faces closure unless it finds a new home face an anxious wait for a council decision.

Pendle Croquet Club have been overwhelmed with support in their bid to move into Victory Park, Barnoldswick.

But despite the local backing the club is still waiting for a final answer from Pendle Council, which is due at a meeting next week.

John Beech, chairman of the club, issued a heartfelt appeal to Pendle Council for help last month after the club was told it could no longer operate from Nelson and Colne College.

Mr Beech told members of the West Craven Committee the club will close unless a new home is found before the end of the year.

Mr Beech said: "I am very worried about the time-scale because it will take time to develop the quality lawns that croquet is played on, so we need a decision in the very near future.

"The support we have received has been very welcome, there hasn't been one voice speaking out against the plan to move to Victory Park, but we still need a yes from the council.

"If we don't get that positive response then I'm very much afraid the club will fold, but hopefully it will not come to that."

Victory Park was picked from a shortlist of 14 possible new homes and the plan, if agreed by councillors, would be to create four playing courts, a small pavilion, storage and shelter.

The club are keen to get the scheme accepted as they host several national croquet competitions each year and have a thriving membership of about 50.

The club would pay for all the development and maintenance costs, although an exact cost for the scheme is not yet known.

But Craven ward councillor David Whipp said councillors have to take into consideration the current programme of events Victory Park currently hosts.

He said: "We are very keen to help the croquet club in the best way we can. We do have a fair which attracts a sizable mount of people to the park. We also have a gala and the bonfire is held in the park."

A decision on the croquet club will be made at a meeting of the West Craven Committee at Mount Zion Baptist Chapel, Earby at 7pm on Tuesday, February 4.