SOUTHAMPTON’S African Caribbean Community Centre could be forced to close unless trustees can find vital investment.

The centre, which is based in a former church in Trinity Street, St Mary’s, has fallen on hard times.

The roof requires extensive repair, there have been water leaks which have damaged rooms and the main hall is in need of modernising.

Tony Broomes, who has played an integral part in keeping the centre running, said around £300,000 is needed to give the building a new lease of life.

He said: “We have got to be realistic. Realistic means we have to get the building into a good state.

“That is going to cost a lot of money. The roof itself is the biggest problem – a new roof on a building this size is going to cost a lot of money.

“We are looking for someone who is sympathetic to the Caribbean community and someone who may have the knowledge to put together a business plan.”

The top floor is currently unoccupied. It was previously used by a popular cricket club founded by members of the community and by a dominoes team.

The centre now houses an over-50s group, a youth group and the To Ask Seek and Know (TASK) group, formed by Raymond Williams.

The centre is still an important part of African Caribbean community life. It is traditional for hundreds of people still to make their way back there following a funeral.

Mr Broomes said: “The worst scenario for us would be if we cannot find a way to raise money – we would have to sell the building to someone who would be doing the same thing anyway.

“There’s no reason for this building to be any other than a community centre.

“There are community groups that would snap up this building if they could afford it. I know they need space.

“There are other groups that could get involved if they wanted under the African Caribbean Federation umbrella.

“Funerals are a very important part of the centre and it’s important to the people who are getting older and still involved here.

“It’s important to me – I would hate to think where my funeral wake would be if it’s not going to be here.”

Anyone who can help the African Caribbean Centre can contact Raymond Williams on 07900 900771.