AMATEUR pottery group members who narrowly avoided disbandment seven years ago have found themselves in another fight for survival.

The Daily Echo highlighted the plight of the Poole Community Potters (PCP), after Learning and Skills Council funding cuts forced borough councillors to sanction the end of their weekly classes at the Oakdale Centre in 2010.

This group, which included elderly and disabled potters, was then offered space at Poole Pottery to continue.

However, with the looming closure of that iconic Poole institution fast approaching, the community potters have found themselves essentially homeless once again.

Membership secretary Pauline Hassall explained: "We could not have wished for a better home and we will be so sorry to leave them. So now the search starts again as Poole Pottery closes in October

"We are a not for profit community group looking for a sympathetic landlord. PCP would like to hold a one day a week informal class for up to twenty adults in a location where our equipment can be permanently housed and where our kiln can be fired.

"We cannot afford commercial rents, but we have successfully paid our way with Poole Pottery through a nominal rent plus payment for kiln firings.

"As part payment we would also like to offer our new hosts shared use of our equipment so they too might make use of it."

The Poole Pottery store and studio at Poole Quay is scheduled to close on Thursday, October 15.

This decision, following months of discussions between owners Denby Holdings and the landlords of the property, sparked a wave of concern when it was made earlier this year.

Hundreds of supporters signed a petition calling for the pottery to remain open, as it is a name synonymous with the town and has proved a huge draw for tourists and day-trippers for decades.

PCP owns a fully equipped pottery studio including an electric kiln, four electric potters wheels, moulds, tools, clay and glazes, tables and cupboards.

Pauline said: "Our members are mainly elderly, some are disabled, but all are passionate about making things in clay.

"Continuous learning and new challenges in a supportive environment provide enrichment to our lives. We take our craft seriously but the community side of our group is vital too.

"New members quickly make friends and join in shared meals, transport, and attend creative courses together.

"It is like an extended family."

If you can help in any way contact Pauline Hassall at poolecommunitypotters@yahoo.co.uk