A community centre which suddenly closed last year is appealing for volunteers as it prepared to reopen.

The Royal British Legion community centre on Aylsham Road in Norwich closed in November after its London head office withdrew the licence for the leaseholders to use their name, with them unable to afford to pay the new commercial rates set.

But the centre will reopen on February 1 for groups and organisations to use the extensive space for their club activities.

Ernie Green, 64, retired and the chairman of the Norwich branch, said: 'We have taken the premises back and are hoping to re-attract groups to rent our rooms.

'But the problem is that we are low on funds, and to attract people to use our space, we have to have better facilities.'

As well as activity space, the Legion will also be running a coffee shop for users of the centre.

Jenny Simpson, 69, retired, has been involved in the Legion since 2009. She is now the deputy poppy appeal organiser, and passionate about the cause. She said: 'I really believe in this and want the centre to work.'

She added that the current centre was a shell, without all the equipment needed for full functioning, including kitchen equipment for the cafe.

Mr Green added: 'We are so grateful for anything people aren't using, from sofas, to vending machines, it all helps.'

To help the centre call 01603 408905.

Do you have a community story for the Evening News? Contact Rosa McMahon on 01603 772495 or email rosa.mcmahon@archant.co.uk