by Keyan Milanian

A charity concert has been arranged to help save a struggling community club.

BAE Systems Sports and Social Club, in Bells Lane, Hoo, is at risk of closure after failing to secure planning permission for a 97-home development.

The club's manager, Andy Frost, says it meant missing out on £3.5million in funding.

Now Mr Frost is hoping to secure the future of the club by getting 1,000 people to commit to membership fees for next year by Monday, November 23, and to help, singer and KM employee Dawn Matthews has agreed to perform at the club on Thursday this week.

Hear Dawn performing Amy Winehouse's song Back to Black

It is hoped other vocalists and entertainers will also take part in the event, starting at 8.30pm.

Miss Matthews said: "I have been going to this club on and off for the last 25 years. I used to watch my aunt sing there often in the early 1980s and used to practise at her gigs quite a lot.

"I also used to attend a youth disco there once a month and have recently performed there at a candle-lit supper for charity.

"Many charities use the club as a meeting point and it would be such a shame if the club had to close."

The club will be open to non members for the evening.

New or present members can join or renew memberships by logging onto the club's website at www.baeclub.co.uk by calling 01634 251492 or by emailing Mr Frost at andy@baeclub.co.uk