AN investigation is under way into an allegation of financial irregularities – said to involve thousands of pounds – at Broadway village hall, the News understands.

Committee members have reported “discrepancies” in their accounts following an internal audit.

In a public statement, the committee confirmed “a substantial sum” had been recovered.

They also said the treasurer had resigned.

The statement said: “Investigations are taking place and the relevant statutory bodies have been notified.

“The village hall management team is currently attempting to ascertain the scope of the discrepancies, and have succeeded in recovering a substantial sum.”

Paul Trueman, chairman of the parish council and village hall committee, declined to comment on the amount of money involved but confirmed it was thousands of pounds.

He added: “We have informed the village and we did hold a special meeting. We cannot say anything more at the moment.”

Broadway village hall has been a registered charity for 30 years offering community events, group meetings and leisure facilities to people in the village.

A spokesman from the Charity Commission said: “The trustees of the charity reported a theft to the Commission, and informed us that they had taken legal advice and notified the police.

“We remain in contact with the trustees about the steps they are taking to manage the situation.”

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said enquires were ongoing.

The spokesman added: “We are investigating an allegation of financial irregularity at Broadway village hall in Broadway.”

Broadway village hall committee refused to pass on to the treasurer this newspaper's invitation to comment.

Anyone with information about these allegations can contact the News on 01823-365104 or email newsdesk@chard andilminsternews.co.uk