A LACK of interest in Aycliffe Village Hall could put its future in doubt, a meeting has been told.

The chairman of Great Aycliffe Village Hall Association voiced his fears during the organisation's annual meeting.

In his yearly report, Harry Moses said that lack of interest in village hall activities was a serious problem.

He pointed to the fact that that there had been no response from residents to the two newsletters sent out during the year.

Mr Moses said: "We are fighting apathy and need a better response from villagers."

Fears were also expressed that the association might lose a £1,000 grant from Durham County Council.

Although the committee was told last month that the council would provide the fund, there has so far been no official confirmation.

Mr Moses also questioned the need for pushing ahead with the refurbishment of lavatories if no one was going to use the hall.

He thanked the committee for their efforts through the year and paid tribute to treasurer David Lewis.

Mr Lewis, who has been treasurer for 20 years, said he would continue in post for the time being, but would definitely resign in 2005.

He said that a new treasurer would have to come forward because without someone paying the bills and insurance, the hall would definitely close.