A VILLAGE club is to close its doors after decades of serving the community.

Catterick Civil Service Club, on Dane Road in Catterick, North Yorkshire is to close tomorrow following a downturn in business.

Bar steward Peter Gibson, who has worked at the club for 15 years, said: "Its a very sad day.

"I've really enjoyed working here over the years, its a great little club.

"I think the smoking ban has had a real effect on business, and of course the credit crunch.

"It will be a real loss for Catterick."

The club was opened in the early 1960s. It has a large function room, bar, and held regular dancing sessions for residents, which have soared in popularity thanks to the BBC show Strictly Come Dancing..

Doreen Kay, a keen dancer and tea dance organiser, said: "There has been dancing there for at least 55 years, and there are very fond memories held by me and my fellow dancers.

"It will be sadly missed - it is the end of an era."

Coun Rob Johnson, who represents Catterick on Richmondshire District Council, said: "A business must be able to make money in order to survive, but the loss of any community facility like this is deeply, deeply sad."

Mr Gibson said a final celebration would be held at the club on Sunday for members only.

He said: "It will be pretty emotional."

The club is owned by the Civil Service Pensioners Association.

Nobody from the association was available for comment.