A pioneering community organisation in FarGo Village which aimed to offer a place for people all ages, abilities, cultures and social backgrounds to take part in arts and creative activities and more besides, has been forced to close its doors.
Allsorts, which was run by Margaret Lyson-Marshall, described itself as a “community inclusive arts space” offering a raft of activities, including messy play, art and craft activities, a craft resource library and party space.
Among other things, the community interest company also ran life skills workshops, fundraising events, discussion groups, hobby clubs and a sewing school.
Its ethos was “to provide a place for anyone and everyone to use for ideas, company, to learn or teach creative skills or just have a chat”.
But last week Allsorts announced it was shutting-up shop, blaming the closure on it not being used enough to make it financially viable.
On both its website and Facebook page the business published a statement which read: “It is with a very sad heart that we tell you Allsorts has opened its doors for the last time.
“As with everything it comes down to money and if you don’t use a business, you end up losing it...
“It has been a great two years but financially we cannot continue.”
The statement went on to thank those who had used the facility and pledged to give refunds to anyone who had booked events there.
It added: “We want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported us either as a customer or volunteer, we have certainly made some friends along the way.
“Anyone who has pre-booked for events, workshops or hire will be contacted over the next few days and given a full refund. Thank you again.”
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The news was greeted with dismay on the Allsorts Facebook page with scores of comments lamenting its closure.
Charlotte Mace said: “Thank you for all you did and tried to do for the people of Coventry. Such a shame, you were amazing every time I brought my boy and girl along.
“Totally Thomas day last year was amazing and we had been looking forward to it this year. Hope any future venture is better attended.”
Karen Wilson said: “So sad. A fantastic place with a great ethos. More funding should be made available to ventures such as this.”
Debs Hewitt said: “Really saddened to hear your news this morning. I can honestly say that Margaret is a bloody superstar!
“You helped and supported a lovely group of adults with LD to become stronger and confident in everything they do.”
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Debbie Jones said: “That’s such a pity it was a fab place for arts and crafts and lovely people. I hope you find something else!”
Kathryn Lambert said: “I’m so sorry to read this, you have always been lovely when ever we have popped in. Wishing you all the very best in all that you go on to do.”
Carole Donnelly said: “That is such a shame. So many small businesses and social enterprises struggle to make ends meet here in Coventry.”
Anna Pietras said: “No way. So sorry to hear we loved it there when we could make it. I was so looking forward to the Thomas day again.”
Helen Freeman said: “So sad to hear this, we loved coming to Allsorts.”
