A CENTRE launched to support hundreds of railway workers who lost their jobs when one of the region's biggest employers closed during the 1980s is facing an uncertain future.

Shildon, in County Durham, was dealt a devastating blow when British Rail announced the closure of its most productive wagon works in 1985.

Thousands lost their jobs and, as part of a rescue package laid down by local authorities and government agencies, The Shildon Centre rose from the ashes to help the town move on and find new employment.

Based in a large old building in the town centre, it has become a vital part of the community, supporting hundreds of volunteer groups and projects in the town, including a much-used community transport scheme and various youth groups.

It has come to provide a haven for residents, including some who have no other form of social contact with the outside world and rely on their daily visits.

Last year alone, its staff say they welcomed 15,000 visitors, answered more than 4,000 telephone calls, made more than 7,000 photocopies and provided 270 hours of free counselling to local people.

They also worked with more than 50 groups and organisations in the town and brought £41,500 of funding into the community for local groups.

The small group of staff, backed by a host of volunteers, has taken on new projects with relish and seen them flourish.

Now they are facing a new challenge, which will see them battle for the centre's future following an announcement that Durham County Council is looking at withdrawing the funding that the centre has relied on for more than 20 years.

Christine Wood, who took on the role of centre manager earlier last year, said: "It is true that Durham County Council is considering its long-term ability to fund the centre.

"If funding is withdrawn, this would not be until April 2007 and the council has said it would work with staff, volunteers and users to secure the centre's long-term future via an independent trust."

Ms Wood is determined to stamp out rumours that the centre is facing certain closure, saying that staff and volunteers are determined that it will still be there for years to come.

She said: "I started working here in May, at the same time as Freda Toon, our community development worker, and both of us are absolutely thrilled to be working with such a vibrant community. There are some great local people who have lots of ideas and are working hard to make good things happen in the town."

Some of the things planned for this year include helping the Shildon Community Transport Scheme raise money for a new bus. Last year, the bus ferried 4,000 passengers on more than 500 journeys and the time has come for a new vehicle.

There are also plans to establish a Shildon Youth Network and form a community partnership - both schemes that the centre is determined to help with.

Ms Wood said: "It is an exciting time in Shildon and there are still lots of things to do. We are determined we are going to be here to see these things through and celebrate our 21st birthday in April."