Brownies fear loss of base

A group of brownies could see their base turned into a housing development. The 8th Willenhall Brownies meet weekly at the former Little London School but will be forced to relocate if Walsall Council's plan gets the go-ahead.

Brown Owl Donna Holmes said: "It would be horrific to have to move, we are very settled. People know we are here and we would love to be able to stay. Our current premises are ideal. The facilities there mean we can offer a wider range of activities, like a sleepover, which may not be possible elsewhere."

Some inquiries have been made into possible new venues should the Stafford Street building close.

Brownie leaders fear an enforced move may lead to a drop in numbers and an increase in membership fees to cover higher rent costs.

"At the moment everything is up in the air," said Miss Holmes. "Time we spend looking around venues is time we could spend planning activities for the girls. We just don't know what is happening and feel like we are entering the unknown."

The troop had to relocate 12 years ago following the closure of Portobello school in Willenhall. That site is now a housing development.

Little London School, which closed this year to be replaced by Fibbersley Park Primary, is also used by other groups including rainbows, a youth group, Silver Threads retirement club and a bible study group.

Campaigners launched The Willenhall School of Hope to try to keep the building for community use.

The council plans to sell the site for housing development as it is surplus to requirements. Money raised would be used for recreation and leisure.

On Friday seventeen brownies attended the first sleepover held there – a travel themed event with themed crafts and games covering eight major periods from prehistoric times to World War II.

Girls had a pampering session of face masks and manicures before bedtime.

Brownies meet on Monday in term time, (6.30-8pm). The group is currently full but to join the waiting list call 07742336424.