A community group for adults with learning disabilities in Bournemouth have announced that they are to remain closed until April next year

The social group, based at the Embassy Centre on Brassey Road in Winton, have said that work is continuing to improve their online services so members can still stay connected.

In a statement announced on their social media platforms, Bournemouth Gateway Club said: “It is with real sadness that we are letting you know that we have decided not to open Bournemouth Gateway Club’s doors until Thursday April 8.

"We have looked at many different options and tried really hard to find a way to make it work but we just don’t feel that it would be safe to open.

"We know this is a huge disappointment to everyone. We are upset and unhappy too but the safety or our members, volunteers and staff is the most important thing."

Members of the group have been advised to join the ‘Bournemouth Gateway Club social group’ on Facebook.

The closed group is open to Gateway Club members as well as their carers and family members.

To help members stay connected, Bournemouth Gateway Club will be running a six-week trial of Facebook live singing and music sessions.

These will be held every Friday morning at 11am from Friday October 23.