'Heart of Corby' to hold fundraising evening

A fundraising campaign to save a community pub dubbed "Little Aberdeen" is under way.

The Grampian Club in Corby, Northamptonshire, has supported the Scottish heritage of the town since 1977, opening to members a year later.

Earlier this year the club announced it was struggling financially, needing about £20,000 a week to stay open.

Catherine Ward, a volunteer at the club, said: "The appeal has brought everyone together. The club really is the heart of Corby." A fundraising evening at the site begins at 18:30 GMT.

In July, the club revealed it was struggling with severe financial challenges, with utility bills nearing £45,000.

A letter from the club's committee detailed that it needed at least £20,000 per week to stay afloat, but had been averaging £9,000.

In response, the club launched a fundraising appeal, which sparked a flurry of new memberships.

One long-term member, who joined in 1978, said: "I've been here since the very beginning. You can be from anywhere and [be welcome] in the club."

Ms Ward added: "A lot of people think it's a great place to be. It's as if they're saying, 'This is our club and we don't want to lose it.'"

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