A SEVERE shortage of volunteers is causing major problems for the Haslewey Community Centre.

The centre's manager, Wendy Hindes, said that finding people to man the centre while it is being used by groups in the afternoon and evening is becoming "impossible" and is posing a security risk.

"In a way, we've become a victim of our own success," said Mrs Hindes.

"It was always essential to make sure the centre is fully booked in the evenings to ensure rental fees, which we've done and it's incredibly popular.

"But the problem is that we can't lock the doors when so many people are coming and going, so the building must stay open but the problem is a lack of people to provide a presence."

Last week, a collection box on the reception desk was taken by a passer-by who wandered into the centre, while it was being used by the Pilates and WeightWatchers groups.

"We did manage to get this back from him after he was chased down the road, but that isn't really the point. Security is always at the back of our minds."

The centre currently relies on just two volunteers plus Mrs Hindes.

Mrs Hindes is employed to work 21 hours a week, but usually ends up working around 30.

"This morning, because our cleaner is on holiday, I was left cleaning the toilets. Unless I do it, things just don't get done.

"Although I'm employed for just 21 hours, it really has become more of a full-time job and as much as I don't mind helping out, it's becoming too much."

Mrs Hindes needs volunteers to man the reception, answer the phone and help with general office duties.

"It's something that would be ideal for students to do, because they could just get on with their work, but crucially provide a presence," she said.

"In the past, you had a lot of people in Haslemere, particularly older housewives with a social conscience who would volunteer.

"But I think those days are gone now, people don't have the time and prefer to work.

"The volunteer bureau staff told me that they could count on one hand the number of people who have come forward this year to offer their services."

The £1 million community centre officially opened last June after 16 years of planning and fundraising.

Haslewey has to raise around £20,000 a year in revenue from room hire to cover ongoing operational costs and now has a wide range of groups and societies using it on a regular basis.

Those interested in volunteering at Haslewey - and who could spare as little as an hour a week - are asked to contact Mrs Hindes on 01428 648716.