A MUSIC charity could be made homeless after being told to leave its rehearsal space of seven years.
The Surrey Community Music Society has just five weeks to vacate the residents' communal lounge at Churchfield House in Cobham.
The charity's chief executive, Cliff van Tonder, said owners Elmbridge Housing Trust had made the decision after changing its policy on hiring communal areas to external organisations.
"We are shocked and very disappointed," he said.
"Elmbridge Ladies' Choir and Elmbridge Big Band – 130 of our members – enjoy their weekly rehearsals at Churchfield House and it will be difficult for us to find a suitable alternative venue at such short notice."
Mr van Tonder said the charity was initially told it had three weeks to leave, but Elmbridge borough councillor James Vickers had negotiated to have the notice period extended until the end of February.
The society, which raises money through performances to fund its music grants scheme Get Music Going!, must now find a large venue in Cobham or the surrounding area which is available at a reasonable rate on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
"It's not the end of the world and I feel confident that we will find a solution," said Mr van Tonder. "But with concerts planned for the year ahead we need as little disruption to our rehearsal schedule as possible.
"If anyone can help with premises I would be so grateful if they could contact me urgently."
Anyone able to help can contact Mr van Tonder on 07880 796623.
