A SOCIAL club which has been hit by the smoking ban says it has decided to keep its doors open after initial fears it would close.
Two months ago Glasgow Rangers Supporters' Club in Corby was on the brink of collapse after members decided to stay away because of the nationwide public smoking ban which came into force in July.
But the committee has managed to save the club wit
h a series of fundraising events and is now issuing a town-wide notice to say it will carry on serving.
Entertainment secretary Rosemarie Inglis said she wants to quash rumours the popular club in Rockingham Road, which has been a base for fans of the Scottish football club for more than four decades, has come to the end of the road.
She said: "Like most social clubs in the town we have been hit hugely by the smoking ban. Members who smoke were preferring to stay at home rather than come in for their usual pint and cigarette, which was hitting the takings.
"We are now turning it around thanks to the efforts of the committee. There was a danger that we were going to close but we are not."
There are still worrying times ahead for the social club as it will find out at the start of the new year if smoking members decide to renew their membership or leave.
The club currently has about 500 members and their fees pay for the running costs of the building.
If the membership drops significantly the club will be in danger once again.
The smoking ban has hit clubs, pubs and social venues all round the country.
The Stardust Bingo hall in Midland Road, Wellingborough, has been one of the casualties of the ban and had to close in August following a sharp drop in players.
Glasgow Rangers Supporters' Club is open seven days a week from midday to 3pm and 6pm to 11pm.
To book the hall for functions call 01536 203016.