TRUSTEES of a community association threatened with closure are consulting liquidators, it has emerged.

The management of Alington House Community Association, in Durham, has taken the step after a public meeting failed to produce enough volunteers to ensure its survival.

The association, which was founded more than 70 years ago, is struggling to meet its running costs and desperately needs a secretary and treasurer.

The association trustees have declined to comment publicly, but it is understood an extraordinary meeting, scheduled for later this month, has been postponed until December. A date is yet to be confirmed.

A number of association members are unhappy with the actions of management, fearing Alington House may shut in January.

About 12 members have been holding talks with a view to finding an alternative.

One, who asked not to be named, said: "There are about 12 or so members and well-wishers looking into finding other ways forward, other than closing the building.

"Alington House is an absolute gem. There's nothing like it in the centre of Durham."

Professor Gordon Batho has made a donation to the association and offered the support of his History of Education Project.

Alington House was founded in 1933, with Hester Alington, the wife of the then Dean of Durham, Cyril Alington, playing a key role in its early development.

It moved to its present home, a grade II-listed property in North Bailey, in 1948.

Among the activities it hosts are ballroom dancing classes, exhibitions, counselling, youth services and Open University teaching.

Some groups are already looking for alternative places to meet.

Trustees have appealed to anyone who can help save the association to come forward. To contact the association, call 0191- 386-4088.