I am writing to support the comments made by Yvonne Stephens and Bob Griffins regarding Folkes’ attempts to repossess Somers Sports and Social Club.

In a world dominated by the need to accumulate more and more money, it is of course not surprising these faceless people are pursuing a lucrative site within the town.

It is unlikely any of those involved in the pursuit live in Halesowen or are aware of the pleasure derived from this facility by the residents of the town (and if they did, it would be unlikely to curtail their greed).

Yvonne points out there are few employers and benefactors left such as Walter Somers and Cadbury’s. However I am sure she would agree it is an insult to mention Folkes in the same sentence as these two captains of industry (which is why I haven’t!).

The main concern is Folkes’ muscle and financial resources will win the day and therefore it is vitally important everyone in the town does everything possible to repel their attempts to repossess this wonderful facility.

Everyone should start by writing to the Halesowen News and also directly to Folkes expressing their desire that Somers should remain as a Sports and Social Club for the benefit of the people of Halesowen and the surrounding area.

After all, it is not only the club members who will suffer, but the whole of the town, as more green belt and recreational land is built upon (Coombs Wood Social Club is also in a battle to save their club and sports facilities).

The committee is doing everything in their power to keep the facility and I know Mick Freer, who has been involved in many similar ‘green belt’ battles over the years, is also up for the fight.

However, the responsibility is with each and every one of us to do everything possible to retain these facilities for our children and future generations.

This is exactly why Walter Somers bequeathed the Grange to the people of Halesowen – he created employment for many people in the town and then provided us with an outstanding facility.

Don’t let Walter down now – show your support and let’s win the battle.

Can I appeal to everyone in the town to not sit back and accept what appears to be the inevitable, because the outcome is certainly not cut and dried.

The club has a very good case but in addition it need your support to keep the situation firmly in the public eye.

Please spend 30 minutes of your time writing to the Halesowen News over the next couple of weeks showing your support and preserving the Grange for the people of Halesowen.

Mick Kenna, Hayley Green