MIDDLEHAM Key Centre must become more commercial to ensure its future, residents and managers have agreed.

Centre manager Judith Brickwood told an open meeting that charges for community activities must rise or volunteers be found to run sessions.

As there was no interest from prospective volunteers, a suggestion by Coun Tammi Tolhurst, the mayor, that the centre must become more commercial, even if this meant restricted community use, was supported.

Ms Brickwood would keep community users informed of further developments. She said the centre was now self sustaining and must continue to attract more commercial bookings, which had grown significantly over the last 18 months.

The uncertainty over the future of the annual stables open day, due to possible Good Friday racing, would have an impact on the centre and other local charities.

The future of the equine pool, which sometimes gave money to the centre from rentals, was also uncertain. It had not been used as much as expected, the current tenant had given notice and the directors were assessing its future.

The meeting on Wednesday of last week was called to allow residents and users to be involved in discussions about the centre's future.

Coun Tolhurst was concerned that only one of the three active trustees lived in the town. Allan Wall offered to be a trustee and director and his appointment was accepted.