source: google.com It is now becoming an almost weekly feature in our bingo news of a bingo hall closing for good. Last week, it was the turn of Buzz Bingo Glenrothes to announce its permanent closure. Two weeks prior, reports emerged of the Beacon Bingo Redcar closing. This week, it is the turn of Beacon Bingo Loughborough.
The grade II listed building, originally opened in 1936 as the Odeon Theatre, is the latest bingo hall to have closed due to “significant trading losses” caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Having shut in the latest national lockdown, Beacon Bingo has confirmed that it is closed for good.
Formerly Mecca Bingo, the closure of Beacon Bingo Loughborough makes a total of 18 staff now redundant. A spokesperson for Beacon Bingo said:
“We are saddened to confirm that our Bingo Club in Loughborough has closed its doors.
“We have such a loyal following of customers that our teams have built close relationships with over the years.
“Along with our teams, there will be many within the local community that will be sad to hear this news.
“The present team have shown great dedication and resilience throughout the Covid pandemic and had continued to deliver a great service to our customers during the period we were able to open.
“However, despite these efforts, overall the club has continued to make significant trading losses for the past few years.”
“The closure was announced internally on February 22 and each member of staff received individual consultations to air any concerns.”
“A Real Blow”
One ex-employee was quoted in the local paper saying:
“It is sad that the Beacon is closing. Bingo halls are a place of community for many older people who find great friendship and fun in bingo halls.
“With so many elderly having been so alone for the last year I think this will be a real blow for them. Bingo is not just about gambling – it is a safe place to meet friends, have a meal, and pass an afternoon when you live alone.”
Other Beacon Bingo halls are expected to reopen on May 17th.
Ben has been an massive bingo enthusiast and fan since playing at the seaside as a kid. Dedicated to bringing you the latest and best bingo news from the UK
