THURROCK Kestrals trampolining club is closing after 31 years.

The club was due to hold a goodbye party at Hassenbrook School, in Stanford-le-Hope, last night (Wednesday) for current and old members.

Coach Kath New, 65, of Caswell Close, Corringham, who has run the club for 31 years, said: “I am chocked about having to close the club.

“I am going to miss the kids the most, at the moment we have about 24 between nine and 18 years old.

“I have been running the club with my daughter, but she is retiring because of arthritus and I am on oxygen 24 hours a day.

“I have taken this decision because as coach I am responsible, and I want the best for our pupils.

“I have been trying to find the current pupils new clubs but they are going to have to travel to Wickford or Brentwood.

“It has been a brilliant 31 years and we have travelled round the world together.”

Mrs New added she hoped the club would re-open in two or three years after the new coaches have got all their qualifications.