AN ACTION group has been formed to try and prevent the possible sale of a much-loved community hall.
It was announced in August 2020 that Wyndham Hall, on Church Street, Amesbury, would not be reopening as a community venue available to hire - a decision made by the owners, St Mary and St Melor Church.
But the Wyndham Hall Action Group claims that the church is trying to sell it "without any warning or consulting either the parishioners or the community".
The group added that news of the possible sale has come as "a complete shock, without an opportunity to discuss the proposal."
UPDATE: Wyndham Hall 'could be sold' owners confirm but talks still ongoing
'A great loss to the community'
The hall was an old British Legion hall that had fallen into disrepair when it was sold to the church to create a community centre, and more than 60 organisations used the space.
The group says that many local individuals donated toward the purchase and refurbishment of the hall.
It also said that "very generous grants" were made from public funds, numerous charities as well as "contributions gained from hard work fund raising", adding: "These donations for the hall were given in good faith for the community of Amesbury".
The Bishop of Salisbury at the opening ceremony of the Wyndham Hall in October 2011
The group said: "The Wyndham Hall is part of the life of the church and has been used for a wide range of activities from mother and toddler groups, OAP lunches, blood donation sessions, Christening parties, receptions, theatre groups keep fit and pilates classes, as well as numerous church functions.
"It is definitely a community asset, valued by the many groups, families and individuals who have used it.
"We The Wyndham Hall Action Group feel that to lose this facility would be a great loss to our community and so we are trying to prevent the sale."
A public meeting is planned with more details to follow.
The Diocese of Salisbury and Amesbury Parish Church have both been contacted for comment.
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