ORGANISERS of a campaign to save Silsden Town Hall from closure say they are "very positive" as support continues to grow.

Nearly 100 people braved atrocious weather to pack into the Kirkgate building for a public meeting.

Updates were provided on the battle to protect the premises, which was launched after cash-strapped Bradford Council announced plans to hive-off the running of seven halls across the district to community groups.

City Hall bosses warned that if no-one came forward, the buildings would be closed.

Simon Holland – secretary of the Friends of Silsden Town Hall, which instigated the campaign – was delighted with the turnout at the meeting.

He told the audience: "Your support will be recorded and the fact that so many people are here on a bad night is weighty indeed."

An application to make the hall a community asset, managed and run by the Friends, is ongoing.

The group has taken on charitable status with the aim of increasing its chances of obtaining high-level funding and has drawn-up a business plan in support of a bid to the council for a 125-year lease on the building.

Future plans put forward by the Friends' trustees include the re-introduction of a police contact point and a number of modifications to the hall, providing accessible public toilets for the town.

It is envisaged jobs could also be created.

Peter Cannon – chairman of Silsden Community Library, based in the building – announced several new activities being introduced, including chess, science and computer coding clubs.

At the close of the evening, more than 20 new volunteers signed-up to give practical support.

After the meeting, Friends chairman Ray Colling said: "To still get that number of people there on such an atrocious night weather-wise – and the terrific response in terms of new volunteers –indicates just how strong interest is in the future of the town hall.

"We are working closely both with Bradford Council and Silsden Town Council and I feel very positive at the moment."

He added that the town council, on the same night as the meeting, had agreed to give £5,000.

The funding will help cover the cost of surveys on the building, ahead of it becoming a community asset.

"The town council has been very supportive of what we are trying to do," said Mr Colling.

During the public consultation period over the local authority plans, more than 2,000 people signed a petition opposing the axing of the Silsden building and dozens of forms against the move were submitted to the council.

Campaigners say the premises play a vital part in community life and host a huge range of events, activities and groups.

Last month, the hall was packed for a celebration marking the launch of a new stage.

The Friends successfully applied for a £10,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund for the stage and new audio equipment.

Silsden Community Productions has just used the facility for the first time when it presented the pantomime Goldilocks and the Three Bears.