CASH-STRAPPED Haddington Conservative Club has closed, pending a special meeting to consider its future.

The club, at 7 Market Street, first opened nearly 30 years ago.

The decision to close was taken at a Special General Meeting of members on August 23.

The premises – which include a bar and a restaurant – will remain shut until its long-term future is decided at a second Special General Meeting at the end of September.

Committee member Christopher Laing confirmed that the club was struggling financially.

He said: “We own the whole of the building – which includes offices above the club.

“But three of the offices are un-let and that has greatly reduced our income. The bar has never made a profit for years and the debts are piling up.” Previously, the offices have been used by East Coast FM and Baguette Express.

An ageing membership and a lack of new blood has also made life difficult for the club, which is home to about 160 members.