THE manager of West Wight Sports and Community Centre has delivered a stark message about the future of the venue, amid increased fears over coronavirus.

Clare Griffin has appealed to Islanders to continue to support the community centre in Freshwater's Moa Place, a self-funded charity, warning its future could be at risk.

'We may need your support'

Clare's emotional appeal on Facebook said: "I am working with trustees and others to put contingencies in place.

"This will involve difficult decisions and we may need your support.

"The livelihoods of our 52 staff members is an additional significant concern.

"We are doing what we can to minimise the impact on their incomes."

The Centre has recently proposed an increase in its fees.

Clare said: "It is, to say the least, bad timing.

"However, we have decided to proceed with the increases as we have put a fair amount of work in behind the scenes which will be time consuming and hence, costly to reverse.

"In addition, obviously the costs that led us to make those increases will remain.

"Indeed, they may well increase.

'Token of support'

"We fully understand if people decide to cancel their memberships whilst we are unable to maintain a normal service.

"We are also incredibly grateful to the large number of very supportive people who made a point of renewing their memberships this week as a token of support for us.

"The health and well-being of our community is our priority.

"We are constantly reviewing our activities and looking at providing alternatives.

"This is likely to include classes outside on the field or maybe the Downs or beaches, with limits on social contact.

The centre's Facebook page will be used to keep Islanders updated.

In November, Clare Griffin was rewarded for her work at the West Wight Sports and Community Centre.

Read more: Isle of Wight's Clare Griffin wins Sunday Times Grassroots Sportswoman of the Year