Desperate hopes of keeping Wickford Round Table up and running have been dashed.

Members told This Is Essex last month the organisation was to fold, but made a last-ditch bid for new blood.

However, it was today revealed that the desperate plea has fallen on deaf ears and the 40-year-old Table will wind up before its new season begins in March.

Secretary Steve Riley said he had hoped the situation would change.

He said: "I prayed people might think it would be a good idea to join and help keep us going but it's still as bad as it was.

"Only four Tablers turned up to our last meeting so it's getting difficult to carry on doing anything worthwhile with a lack of members and interest. We will have to close. It's very sad for the ex-Tablers who have been involved for years."

But Mr Riley said members could remain proud of the good work they had achieved over the years.

The Round Table's annual firework display at the Memorial Park this year raised £1,800 to buy equipment for Basildon Hospital's baby care unit.

It had been feared the closure of the group would put an end to one of its much-loved events, the Santa float. But locals have stepped in to save it.

Mr Riley said: "We plan to give the sleigh to Shotgate Community Association. If we can keep it in Wickford then at least local people can still use and enjoy it.

"We will donate it with the understanding that other community groups can borrow it if they want to."

Over the decades Wickford Round Table has raised thousands of pounds for charity and run many popular events.

A recruitment drive was held in the summer, but failed to boost membership or drum up more interest in the group. At the height of its popularity the club had to restrict its members to 40 and set up a waiting list.

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