THE man driving a move to reopen a defunct community centre in Burnt Oak has started a petition in a bid to rally public support.

Bill Reeves is calling for residents to show their backing for the campaign to get Barnet Council to hand over the former Watling Boys Club in Dryfield Road, to get it back into community use.

The 63-year-old is putting petitions in shops along Deansbrook Road, as well as in Greggs bakery in Watling Avenue. He hopes to have more petitions available locally soon.

On Monday he addressed the Hale Ward Forum, in front of an audience of more than 50 people, to explain why he wants to reopen the facility.

He said: “After I got up and said my bit we had a lot of response, more than 40 people signed the petition then and there and two people asked to join the steering group.

“I'm feeling confident we can make this work, but we need more community involvement and it's going to take a lot of effort. I'm waiting to hear back from several places about getting equipment and fittings.”

Hendon MP Matthew Offord has also championed the scheme, describing it as an example of “Big Society” in action.

Anyone interested in helping the campaign can contact Mr Reeves on 07847 398 010.