A TROUBLED workingmen's club is battling back against crippling debt following a series of thefts and burglaries.

King Street WMC, one of the most popular in Accrington, was nearly forced out of business when more than £12,000 went missing from the accounts two years ago.

The police were called in when the cash disappeared along with important papers and accounts.

And the club was sent reeling by a second blow after burglars stole the safe containing cash and vital documents in a bold raid 12 months ago.

Leaked documents have revealed that an external audit of the King Street club revealed a loss of more than £2,400 for last year.

The WMC still owes more than £38,000, but has been helped out by an interest-free loan from Bass Breweries.

Secretary Ted Birch said: "The situation at the club is not as bleak as it first appears.

"The Auditor told members that the situation is looking promising, although we can't get rid of our debts straight away we could be in a profit making situation this time next year." Mr Birch added: "No other club in Accrington has had to deal with the problems we have had to face over the last three years.

"There are not many clubs in Accrington which would have been able to continue trading if they had been in the position that we were in."

The main reason for the improved situation is a profit margin of more than 38 per cent on sales.

Ted Birch said: "The members of the club have been marvellous, it is thanks to them we are still in business."

King Street WMC is also taking part in a campaign calling for the council to give Hyndburn clubs help to pay their business rate bills.

Clubs in the borough claim they are being forced out of business because of the lack of support from town hall bosses.

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