Scrubbers plan to support Stanhope Hall

Horncastle and District Scrubbers have been using Stanhope Hall since the group was founded in April.

Volunteers have been making scrubs, face coverings, nightdresses and various other items to distribute to those in need.

Stanhope Hall, like many other venues in the county, has suffered during the Covid-19 pandemic as events and shows have been cancelled.

At this month’s town council meeting, there was a discussion regarding whether Horncastle and District Scrubbers would donate any funds to Horncastle Town Council/Stanhope Hall, as the group has been using the premises free of charge.

Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Brian Burbidge said: “Covid-19 has done an immense lot of damage in loss of revenue and cost.”

Councillor Alan Lockwood asked whether income had been generated through Horncastle and District Scrubbers using Stanhope Hall, and Coun Burbidge replied no.

In response to this, Coun Lockwood said: “Is there no way you can?

“I know you’ll try if you can, but it seems to me it is sad that you’ve given up a major resource to a charity who are receiving support from all over the country when it comes to people and assets/donations that none can be directed to the place being used.

“There have been significant national pushes for scrubs as it has been at the forefront of people’s minds.”

Coun Burbidge replied: “I’ve got no idea what they have had donations wise - I believe most of it is material rather than cash.

“I don’t know what their financial situation is.”

Town Mayor, Councillor Fiona Martin said: “We as a town council have been bankrolling for them as they didn’t have a bank account.

“The only donations they have had in a national nature are materials - it hasn’t actually been cash.

“The only cash is local donations and we’ve been keen as a town council to ensure that we end up with a nil balance

“Obviously if they have monies left over it will be up to them to decide what to do with it.