Two close-knit crafts groups are protesting against a possible change to the way the pay for their classes.

The pension-age members, who are based at the Hollywood building in Bocking End, have been told by Braintree and Bocking Community Association that six classes will need to be paid for up-front from September.

This could mean a lump sum of £66 every 6 weeks - a figure members say is “unfair” and could force members to drop out.

Prick and Stitch member Carol Wright said: “I, like several others here, have lost my husband and this club is like a lifeline to me.”

Association lead trustee John Gunson said: “We’re aware of the nature of the complaint and we’re following our normal procedure to deal with that matter and we have no further comment.”