Number’s up for bingo hall as closure is called
CUSTOMERS SADDENED BY DECISION TO SHUT ST ANN’S CLUB
A POPULAR bingo hall in Nottingham is set to close, leaving users of the “historic” club disappointed.
Gala Bingo, built in a former cinema in St Ann’s Well Road, has announced it will close its doors for the final time at the end of the month.
Staff at the site are being offered a transfer to the Gala Bingo club in Top Valley.
Residents who used the bingo hall were shocked and saddened by the news and spoke fondly of their memories there.
Margaret Underwood, 72, of St Ann’s said: “That’s a real shame to hear. I am thinking of the staff too who are brilliant there.
“I won a fair bit of money in there a few years ago. I have been less as I’ve got older but it is a beautiful old building and it was a great time there.
Sylvia Gardener, 60, of St Ann’s added: “We had a brilliant time there.
“I met up with friends to go down for a night and it was always fun. I won £100 once.
“I think it will be a real blow to the community.
“We need spaces like this to remain in the city and give us options.
“I want to be encouraged to go out and socialise more.
“The staff in there were delightful. They are always up for a laugh and ask you about your day.
Fiona Pollock, 66, of St Ann’s said: “It’s really sad news. It’s a historic building and a place where lots of people have had good times.
“I hope the building is preserved and brought back to use and I hope the staff are looked after.”
A spokeswoman for Gala Bingo said: “Following a review of our club portfolio, we have decided to close the Nottingham St Ann’s club on January 31. Our key priority is looking after our colleagues.
“We will make every effort to offer them opportunities to transfer to our newly re-branded Top Valley club in Nottingham.”
In July 2018, the Post reported on an Ilkeston bingo hall closing its doors after decades of trading.
The Beacon Ritz Bingo Hall in South Street closed its doors that summer.