The future of a youth club that faced extinction is looking brighter following a meeting earlier this week.

As previously reported, Charmouth Youth Club was threatened with closure, risking the loss of its building if a committee of volunteers couldn't be identified.

Losing the Wesley Close building will also mean that any other clubs or societies that have previously rented it out will not be able to do so. 

Now, thanks to the News, word of mouth and posters, the village meeting had a good turnout with around 30 people turning up compared to the 10 from the previous meeting - and a secure future.

Nic Rutterford, secretary of the club, said: “We were able to get a new committee agreed, with 10 new members including a new chair and secretary.

“It’s really positive, everyone has been enthused by the news. It’s early days but we are planning what is next.

“After so much doom and gloom in the news it’s great to see how this village community came together, and in doing so sees how big an asset the building is."

The contract with the owners of the youth club building from the 1960s saw the building handed over with free use forever, as long as the building provides opportunities for young people.

“It was really concerning and touch and go,” admitted Mr Rutterford.

Big plans are on the horizon for the club which hopes to start activities within the next couple of months.

Maintenance work to the inside of the building will be carried out in the meantime.

Mr Rutterford added: “We’re planning to advertise the hall for activities and whilst this is happening, we are looking at building a big plan to open it up as a youth club.

“We have had brilliant ideas from the community and we are keen to listen to the children’s needs.

"We are looking at having a more informal place for people to hang out. It’s really great and we can’t wait to get started.”

The youth club was previously closed in 2016 as part of cuts from Dorset Council, with volunteers fundraising in 2019 to see the club start up again when Glastonbury Music Festival founder Michael Eavis visited for an auction.