IT MAY be "some time" before management of Warndon Community Centre is back in the hands of local people, city council bosses have warned.

Eight volunteers were suspended from the hall's 11-strong committee earlier this month after allegations of bullying against staff.

The remaining board members - Warndon city councillors Jo Hodges and Pam Clayton and Warndon county councillor John Buckley - resigned and handed control of the centre back to the council, saying it was better for the community.

The crisis came after youth worker Julie Sadler claimed she was reduced to tears

by verbal abuse she received from committee members.

The 36-year old said she was insulted while greeting visitors to the centre.

Worcester City Council leader Coun Stephen Inman said he was determined not to make a "hasty decision" in handing the running of the centre back to local people.

"Clearly, some of the individuals who have managed the centre at Warndon over many years have put a considerable amount of time and effort into their local community and the city council applauds their commitment," he said.

"However, the council's first priority must be to maintain high standards of management for its community facilities and council officers were left in no doubt the city council would have to take back responsibility of the centre at least for the time being.

"I feel that it is in no one's interest to hastily enter into a new arrangement and expect that, after consultation with those involved, it may be some time before new management arrangements can be agreed."

The centre has remained open for all users despite the suspensions, with all clubs and playgroups running as normal.

The city council has drafted in staff to look after the centre temporarily until a long-term solution can be found.

Former chairman and vice chairman Deana and Tony Cook have denied bullying anyone and a petition in support of them has been circulated around the centre.