Sports club facing the axe

A popular sports and social club dedicated to the people of Halesowen more than 50 years ago could be forced to fold, it was revealed today.

Somers Sports and Social Club is facing a court battle to remain at The Grange, owned by Stourbridge-based Folkes Holdings Ltd.

The company, which took over the Somers Forge in 1990, has applied for a repossession order for the Grade II Listed building.

The club had enjoyed a rent-free existence at the property since it was founded by the Somers family in the 1950s. But two years ago the property's trustees imposed rent and maintenance fees for the first time and since then the club has been struggling to keep up with the demands.

The club, which has more than 2,000 members, is the home of seven bowling teams and two football teams as well as junior five-a-side football teams and an archery team.

Club member and Halesowen historian Mick Freer said it would be "a travesty" if the town was to lose the club and fears the site could be sold off for housing.

"It must be the jewel in the crown of Halesowen. It is surely too important to lose," he said.

Councillor Bob James, also a club member, said: "It would be a very sad day if the club was to close."

David Vickers, ward member for Halesowen South, said: "I would ask the Folkes group to bear in mind that it is a great asset, not just to Halesowen but to the whole of the borough."

The repossession hearing will be on September 12 at Stourbridge County Court.

The club was set up at the request of the Somers family, who ran a major manufacturing company in the town in 1951. Carl Griffin, managing director of Folkes Holdings was unavailable for comment.