A POPULAR community centre used by almost 700 people a week could face closure if no volunteers come forward to help run it.

Organisers at the Hanwell Fields Community Centre announced in 2013 they were stepping down, but two years later no one has yet volunteered to fill the void.

The Rotary Way hub currently welcomes about 25 organisations, from Scouts and Beavers to toddler groups and youth clubs.

But administrator Peter Goode, who has been running the centre as a volunteer with the Rev Chris Gaynor, said the pair cannot continue.

A decision on the future of the centre will be made at the centre’s next annual meeting on September 14, and Mr Goode said he fears the worst if nobody volunteers.

Mr Goode, who lives in Banbury, said: “The community association members have worked hard to make it such a success but it now needs new members who can bring fresh input and energy.

“Having given notice to step down more than two years ago we really can’t keep going indefinitely and the sad reality is that if no-one comes forward we will have to close.

“The centre has become a real asset to Hanwell Fields and is used daily by a range of community groups and families .

“I would urge anyone who wants to make a difference, get to know new people and get involved in their community to come forward and volunteer.”

A deal was struck with Hanwell Fields Primary School to manage bookings and building maintenance, but Mr Goode added that the terms of the lease agreement with Cherwell District Council meant the association still needs to run the hall.

According to the 71-year-old, the agreement means that management of staff, charges and opening times are left to the association.

Cherwell District Council said it valued the centre and would seek a new tenant if Hanwell Fields ceased to operate, but it was not clear how long that would leave users on the sidelines.

Dance teacher Joanne Merry, who has been using the centre for her business Joanne Merry School of Dance for eight years, said : “A lot of my girls come from Hanwell Fields housing estate and if I am forced further afield I could lose pupils.

“It is my business so it would be devastating and I have built up my girls for the last eight years .”

Anyone interested in finding out more should call 01295 258431.