WITH lots of town centre shops closing, it made me want to write to you about Bondgate Methodist church cafe.

I am a regular user of the cafe but unfortunately it is to be closed at the end of August, after serving the public for 25 years.

Many may not be aware that the kitchen staff are paid, and the waitresses and till operator are volunteers. It serves home cooked meals, no chips, burgers or pizzas.

People like the traditional dinners. Many of the customers are devastated because it is not just a cafe, it is a hub, a community where people meet friends.

Many of us could be classed as vulnerable, not financially but we live on our own, are lonely or elderly.

It is a place where people can go on their own and feel comfortable. The volunteers have time to talk and listen to customers, help with problems and find out information for them. Apparently it has been struggling financially and the church has decided to close it.

Surely they should have given the cafe time to look at options. I am aware that some customers and some members of the church are so upset, they have offered financial gifts, enough to make the cafe viable but it has been declined.

We don’t understand why.

The church is supposed to be a caring institution but this doesn’t show Christian values as it is turning its back on people who have social needs. Many of the groups using the building will also miss the cafe.

I hope this decision can be reconsidered.

Name and address supplied