Talks to be held to discuss the future of Grant Hall in Rothes
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A POPULAR Moray venue is appealing for community help as talks are set to be held to discuss its immediate future.
Rothes' Grant Hall committee is hosting an EGM on September 1, with discussion to take place on whether the hall will reopen after lockdown or close permanently.
The hall has been a mainstay of the village community for many years, but has struggled since the death of former treasurer Raymond Johnston.
The three remaining committee members can no longer take on the task of running the hall themselves – and are in need of help if the venue is to remain open.
Local councillor Louise Nicol, who is the hall's secretary, said: "We would be looking for around nine committee members in total, including office bearers.
"We haven't had that many for a long time.
"Raymond Johnston, our former treasurer, was amazing and did everything. When he died, we were a bit lost.
"We have tried to run it ourselves but we are at the stage where we can't do it any more.
"We have got money in the bank, and want to keep the hall going, but we need help to open."
Ms Nicol is confident that the community will step forward and help the hall survive – and added that a few people have already signalled an interest in September's EGM.
"A few people have been saying they will come along so I hope we get some people are really interested," she added.
"People can't say 'the hall can't close' but then not come to these meetings.
"Rothes has a very good community spirit so we are confident people will step up and come along to help."
Grant Hall has been community-owned for many years and has recently had a new music system installed, with the stage, floors and kitchen all done up.
The EGM, which is open to everybody, will take place inside the hall itself on Wednesday, September 1, at 7pm.
For further information please phone chairman Des Johnston on 07955142870 or secretary Louise Nicol on 07738077173.
