An engineering enthusiasts club is being kicked out of its home after more than 30 years.

Mid Sussex Model Engineering Club has operated from Beech Hurst in Haywards Heath since 1970 but members have been told to go because the council-run buildings are in such bad repair they have been offered to developers.

Members have been looking for new premises but have not found anywhere big enough to store their portable model railway track and four tons of machinery.

The club, which has about 25 members and takes its portable track to children's fairs and fetes for train rides, cannot afford to pay commercial rent and members fear there is a danger of not being able to operate anymore.

Secretary Alan Reynolds said: "We do pay a very cheap rent to Mid Sussex District Council and we were expecting that to increase but we were a little shocked when they said they were looking at the buildings and they were fairly dilapidated.

"I blame the council for letting the building get in such a state. I really cannot see the need to knock our bit down."

The club has until October to move out.

The council hopes to develop the site into a restaurant for use by the public and is considering offers from developers.

Mr Reynolds said the council had offered to help them get planning permission to build somewhere new but he said they could not afford it.

Ian Burton, assistant director of leisure and property at the council, said: "I know my member of staff dealing with this is trying to see if there is any opportunity to keep them at Beech Hurst or combine them with the other club on the premises."

Anyone who could help with accommodation can call Mr Reynolds on 01403 255419.