A VILLAGE parish council has expressed sadness over the likely closure of an ex-offenders' hostel.

The Langley House Trust is currently consulting over the closure of Elderfield on Main Road, Otterbourne after operating it for some 60 years.

In a statement from clerk Julie Ayre Otterbourne Parish Council said: “We are sad to see the closure of such a worthwhile charity enterprise which has been part of our village for over 60 years. The staff have worked very hard to make a difference to their clients’ lives, providing rehabilitation and life skills training and it is a shame that their funding has been reduced to the point that they are unable to continue. We wish them all the best for the future.”