The Irish Club in Bradford could be facing last orders as members are called to an emergency meeting to debate its future.

The club in Rebecca Street, which is also home to the world's longest running folk club, has been struggling to make ends meet financially for sometime, according to members who fear it is about to shut for good.

The meeting next Tuesday will see a resolution put before members for them to have their say on the club's fate.

Bradford Irish Club chairman Dominic Sheeran said as a member of the board running the club he was sworn to secrecy as to the wording of the resolution.

"I can not say a word until then. The club is run as a limited company and because there's a board I can't say anything until the members are informed.

“There is a resolution concerning the club's future and it will be put to members on the night.

“It will either stand or fall depending on what they say."

Bradford Irish Club dates back to the late 19th century when it was formed to provide a social centre for the predominantly Irish, Catholic men in the area.

It has had a number of different venues before settling in Rebecca Street .

Its website says it is open six days a week and closed on Tuesdays except for functions, but according to some members the social side of the club has seen a drop in use and so has bar takings.

One member, who did not want to be named, said to close for good would be a tragedy and an end of an era.

"If it goes then it's a big loss for the city and for the city's Irish community – it is part of our heritage. No one has seen any figures yet and as members it's something we have a right to be shown. We don't want this resolution atthe meeting to be presented as a fait accomplis.

“There might be a chance we can save it. There might be options."

He added: "There's no doubt it has been quieter of late.

“We just can't compete with the likes of Wetherspoons. and competition for people's beer money is fierce. "