POLISH war veterans are in danger of losing their only meeting place in Preston.

The Polish Club, on St Mark's Road, is falling down because of severe dry rot tearing through the floors.

But members, some of whom fought for England in the Second world War, say they face an impossible task of raising £2,000 to help pay for vital repairs.

Preston Council has awarded the club a £1,850 grant - but repairs will cost twice that.

Councillor Dorothy Chaloner, who first met Polish people when she fought alongside their squadrons as a Women's Air Force regular in the Second World War, said: "I feel very sad. The money may not be enough to keep the club open, yet more money has been given to similar projects.

"The Polish are part of Preston and carry their flag on every civic occasion. They've never asked for a penny before."

And former mayor Coun Ron Marshall said: "Many of them came over here and fought for Britain during the war. They escaped the Nazis to fight for this country and they really do deserve something back."

One disappointed member is St Mark's Road hairdresser Geoff Green who has been a member of the club for 15 years.

He said: "The Polish people are the nicest people you could wish to meet. It would be a big shame if the club had to shut because of this."

No one at Preston council was available for comment.

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