THE future of the Bracknell Bees hangs in the balance following the permanent closure of the ice rink - the Hive.

Bosses of the John Nike Leisure Complex announced today (Tuesday, July 14) that the leisure site will be closed for good.

Read the official statement from the JNLC HERE

The closure comes after it faced financial difficulty during the coronavirus pandemic when it had to close on March 20.

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All staff have been made redundant and the future of the Bracknell Bees remains uncertain as the ice rink, known as the Hive will be closed.

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Stuart Robinson, owner of the Bracknell Bees, said despite the Hive closing 'the club will live on' as they are a family.

He said: "Primarily, we have massive sympathy for all those who have lost their livelihoods as a result of the Nike Group’s sad but understandably necessary decision in these challenging times. We wish them, and everyone who worked so hard to try and keep the facility open well for the future.

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"Whilst the Hive may have closed, the club will live on. Whilst bricks and mortar are important, this club is about people, family and community.

"It is a massive loss to the local community in Bracknell and all our “family” within the Hive. The place has given us plenty of wonderful memories over the last 33 years. We’d like to thank Sue Nike in particular for her support, along those involved in the day to day running of the complex – Justin, Detty, Louise, Daniel and all others behind the scenes.

"However, in the meantime, the Bees have been making positive progress in finding a home for the 2020/21 season and beyond and we will make further announcements shortly."

It is not confirmed where the Bracknell Bees will reside for their future games and training but Slough Ice Rink may be a possible venue.