I want to say that I’m pleased to finally see the travesty of the internal modifications of Spalding Constitutional Club making the news, though it does sadden me how this has all come about.
For too long, my father has been silenced over this controversy and it is now, that I feel I should speak out on his behalf.
In your story on Thursday, April 9, it was reported that Mr West of the Spalding and District Civic Society “admitted to surprise that nobody involved with the project realised that permission to work on a historic property was required”.
This in fact, can be proven to not be the truth since my father was suspended from his duties as the club secretary, a post he has held with dignity for 29 years, since he contacted both the South Holland District Council planning office and English Heritage without the permission of the committee as he was aware no planning permission had been granted.
So Mr West’s “surprise” is simply based on misinformation (or withholding the truth from him some might say).
My father was suspended from his duties in July 2014, when following his visit to the council offices an officer went to the club to tell the workmen that they had to “down tools”; he was subsequently suspended and the work continued.
When reinstated in October 2014, (following completion of the internal works), my father was asked if he would repeat this action should such a situation arise again, to which he stated he would.
A simple Freedom of Information request can clarify this information.
My father has been a member of the Constitutional Club for just over 54 years now; he has seen many committee members come and go, has worked more than his fair share of hours there on many occasion and is now likely to leave his position; all because he stood his ground to do the right thing.
Our family have attended many functions at the club as well as hiring it ourselves; wedding receptions, birthday and anniversary parties and funeral wakes.
The once beautiful reception area was its unique feature; with its history of photographs placed in grandeur above the original fireplace.
What stands there now but a plastic concertina screen.
The Spalding Constitutional Club, situated at The Manor House, was gifted to the Conservative Association by John Bunting in 1911.
It was a building created in the 18th Century and a simple internet search can reveal that this was designated a Grade II listed building on December 29, 1950; I don’t need to be a committee member to know that.
I, like many, understand the need to ensure the viable financial future of the club and understand the reasons behind wanting to develop its appeal.
But what are you prepared to lose in the process?
The Manor House should be returned to its original state not a compromised alternative.
Those responsible should be forced to relinquish their positions and membership and made to pay for putting the work right .
Those members who stood by but feared doing something, should now stand up and be heard; this is your club.
Return the club to its former democratic glory and start working with South Holland District Council and English Heritage to put this right.
For my father, some wrongs can never be put right but I will stand by the side of any decent person.
Ms K Walker
Spalding
