Fundraiser upset at Wem 'ticket sales ban'
Charity workers are no longer able to sell raffle tickets for good causes in a town hall, it has been claimed.
Fundraiser Peggy Carson said she had been told she could not promote events or charities at Wem Town Hall other than the town's carnival and winter festival, which both have the backing of the trust which runs the venue on High Street.
The 80-year-old, who is a former mayor of the town, said she was approached by an official at the hall while selling tickets for a raffle to raise money for Primchurch Kennels and Cattery in Prees.
No-one from Wem Town Hall Trust, which leases the building from Shropshire Council, was available to comment on Mrs Carson's claims. But the issue was raised during a recent meeting of Wem Town Council, and councillors are awaiting an explanation from the trust.
Mrs Carson said: "I went into the town hall to ask if I could sell raffle tickets for the dog's home at Prees.
"The lady in charge came out of her office and asked why I was selling draw tickets for Prees.
"I said that the draw was for the upkeep of the stray dogs from North Shropshire who are taken to the kennels at Prees by our local dog warden and the draw had been arranged by him. Funds are always needed for the dogs until they are re-homed.
"I was then informed that the town hall was a charity and a decision had been made that only the carnival and winter festival would be allowed to sell draw tickets in the hall and no other charities.
"After a heated discussion I was told I could go in once more and after that no more. I could not believe it and was very upset so I wrote to Wem Town Council.
"I understand that the town council gives the trust, which runs the town hall, £20,000 a year. After all some of it is our money. It is in my opinion that this decision is completely wrong
"I am deeply upset as that area is supposed to be for the community to use.
"I have been selling raffle tickets for Primchurch rehoming centre twice a year for about seven years now and never had a problem before."
Jane Drummond, clerk to Wem Town Council, said Mrs Carson's complaint was discussed at a recent town council meeting and her letter has been forwarded on to Wem Town Hall Community Trust. Mrs Drummond said she had not had a response yet.
