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"Devastated" - Isle Of Wight's East Dene To Close

A popular Isle of Wight venue is to close its doors permanently at the end of the week.

East Dene, in Bonchurch, will shut on Friday (29) - just three years before its 100th anniversary.

Its owners say they are 'devastated' and 'particularly upset' that all staff will be made redundant.

The centre has been used for schools trips and as wedding venues for many years. 

Its owners say they had hoped to be able to reopen and host residential trips this year.

However, they say the coronavirus pandemic has left them with no choice.

A statement from the owners said:

"The centre has not had any school visits since March 2020 and despite all the government's financial support through the JSS and small grants, there is still no sign that the Government's ban on residential school visits will be lifted.

"The current surge in the infection rate and another lockdown period has made it impossible to continue for an organisation which prides itself on providing a safe experience for children.

"It is particularly upsetting that all staff have been made redundant, most of whom have served East Dene loyally for many years.

"In addition it will impact on future weddings, special occasions and charitable events and all customers are being contacted personally to discuss their individual situations. This is a devastating time for a well established and highly respected business which was just 3 years short of its Centenary."

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