A POPULAR town youth centre could close if funding is not secured.

Droitwich Spa Adventure Playground, in King George Playing Fields, faces an uncertain future because its main financial source has dried up.

The centre, set up nine years ago, has received money from the Children in Need charity since 1994.

Cash has paid playground manager Dave Spicer's wages.

He has now been told funding will only be provided until next September and a more sustainable income must be found.

Dave said he cannot see how money can be secured unless children are charged to use the facilities.

But one of the centre's main aims has been to provide a free service.

Charging fees would mean social services staff enforcing tougher standards - including a costly refurbishment.

Dave said: "We offer a valuable community service. Many children come here and often return as volunteers.

"One day we can have 25 children here - the next, there are hundreds.

"There is a demand but without the necessary cash, services will be reduced to Saturdays only or we could close."

He added: "As much as I love this place, I cannot work for free. I have a family and a mortgage."

Dave hopes to win National Lottery funding or gain a charitable trust grant.

Playground chairman and Droitwich Spa town councillor Peter Pinfield (Lab, Droit.West) said: "Children in Need has given us fantastic support but now we must seek alternative funds.

"We provide a brilliant service and I'm confident someone can help."