Melksham Entertainment Group, which was formed in 2002 and brought a variety of entertainment to local people, is to finish.
The group which was set up under the chairmanship of Vic Oakman started with a grant of £3,000 from Melksham Town Council. The aim of the group was to provide a variety of entertainment which were not available at other venues. In fact it transpired that all events were held in the Assembly Hall a facility that MEG was always anxious to support.
A statement from the group says, “The first 60s dance involving three well known national groups was held in January 2003 to a sell-out crowd and was followed by over 20 more dances, most of which were successful, but latterly were not as well supported as the group would have liked, and some losses did occur. At all dances money was raised for a variety of charities.
“In addition, two successful beer festivals were held as well as two black tie boxing events, the first of which drew a packed house, where it is believed there was a record take at the bar.
“The booking fees for the Assembly Hall were always paid for by the group for each event and the bar takings went close to £20,000 for the dances. MEG feels that the Town Council has had good value for its original £3,000 grant which MEG believes has been repaid many times over. However it remains grateful for the start it was given by the town council.
“Needless to say as with most things situations change and MEG has gone quiet. At a recent meeting of those involved over the years with producing the entertainment programme it was decided that the group had gone as far as it could and decided to call it a day.
“The group would like to thank all the people who supported our events, some of which will live in our memories for many years to come.
“MEG group currently has £2,715.60 in its bank account and it is the wish of the group in closing down that this money be donated to the town council to support future events being held at the Assembly Hall.”
