A CAMPAIGN is underway to save a valued village centre from closure.

Dipton Community Centre could be sold off if supporters are unable to clear thousands of pounds worth of debts.

Bills for utilities have racked up in recent years and the centre has already had its gas switched off.

Some groups, who use the building, have been forced to find alternative premises, but now community activists have vowed to save the centre.

Hairdresser Karen Dodds, 37, who is originally from Dipton, and runs her business in the village, said: “The hall has been here for some years and everyone uses it, young and elderly, for parties.

“It is the hub of the community and if we lose it, it is going to have a massive impact.”

Debts of £10,000 emerged in October, and a range of community-led initiatives have reduced the amount to around £5,500.

Events have included a St Patrick’s Night event, Christmas events, a children’s disco, raffles, collections and an online fundraiser.

Resident Gregg Peart, 34, who works for Derwentside Homes, said: “To move forward we have to get the debt clear which is why the group has come together.

“If the debt cannot be clear the association will fold and the building will have to be sold. They have done a fantastic job but the old committee at the minute cannot continue so we have to form a new one.

“We need young blood and professional blood, people with a bit of financial experience to keep things going.”

The current building was opened in 1994 and stands on the site of the former centre, Jubilee Hall, which was opened in 1935 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of George V.

The Save the Jubilee group has another public meeting planned for Tuesday, April 25, at 7pm.

It is working with two businessmen who are coming up with a business plan to keep the centre afloat once the debts are cleared.

Mother-of-one Rachel Todd, 28, is hoping to hold her wedding reception at centre following her marriage to fiancé, Alex Curry, 27, in September.

She said: “I am hopeful we are going to be able to keep this centre because I do not have a back-up plan.”

To donate visit: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/savethejubilee