Moray club launches pool table appeal
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A CAMPAIGN is underway to replace the pool table at Elgin Community Centre after it fell victim to cuts.
The table was popular with the 82 members of the Greyfriars Club who meet there every Thursday night.
Members were left perplexed by its disappearance but learned the monthly rental of £80 was too expensive in the council's current economic climate.
They decided to fundraise for a replacement and the Friends of Greyfriars group has now launched a crowdfunding appeal.
The campaign – www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/bill-hope-3 – aims to raise £1000 to purchase the table and for its maintenance as well as games.
It is hoped the money could be gathered before the club goes back after the Easter holidays.
Bill Hope, who is a friend of the long-running club, said: "The Elgin Greyfriars Club exists to provide fun and socialising for its 82 members who have learning disabilities.
"They meet weekly in Elgin Community Centre and make use of the coffee bar area and hall.
"For many the highlight of their evening was playing pool, a sport in which men and women could both take part and was the centre of their socialising.
"Unfortunately the centre can no longer provide a table and consequently the Friends of Greyfriars would like to purchase a table which would be the property of the club.
"This would mean that members would have unlimited use and the centre management say it would also be great for other clients with disabilities who visit with their carers."
Up until now, club member Jonathan Bisset has met his pals around the pool table every Thursday night.
He and his friends said they are hopeful local people will get behind the campaign to ensure its swift replacement.
The Greyfriars Club is run by May Newlands and her team of volunteers. As well as the weekly social sessions, members enjoy numerous special events, from St Andrew's Night celebrations and Valentine's Dances to a barbecue at the end of the year. Up until now, a popular pool competition has also featured on the annual calendar.
In addition to the Greyfriars Club, the table was used by members of the 61 other groups which use Elgin Community Centre, as well as by visitors to the facility.
