One of those earmarked for closure is the club at Belle Vue near Gorton. Bosses are blaming the dwindling number of players following the Covid lockdowns as well as the 'ongoing and challenging operating environment' of increased energy bills and other costs.

The jobs of 151 of the firm's 2,456 staff are now at risk across the country, 13 of whom work at the club on Kirkamshulme Lane which backs onto Hyde Road. The company they will support those affected. No date for the proposed closure has yet been given.

The firm says there has been a 'change in customer behaviour' following the pandemic alongside a 'loss in consumer confidence due to the rising cost of living and threat of recession.'

This has meant that the nine clubs earmarked for closure 'ceased to be financially viable' and company chiefs say shutting them 'provides the best possible outcome for all of Buzz Bingo’s stakeholders as it looks to secure a sustainable and successful long-term future for the business and its remaining c. 2300 employees.'

Dominic Mansour, the company's Chief Executive said: "In common with the entire leisure and hospitality sector, Buzz Bingo has failed to see customers return to the high street in the same numbers as before the pandemic.

"This, coupled with a squeeze on family finances brought about by rising inflation and energy prices alongside a jump in our own operating costs means we have no real option other than to cease trading in nine of our locations.

"These closures will, very sadly, impact a number of our colleagues and so our priority is to support all those affected and to do everything we can to minimise job losses. I personally want to thank them for their commitment and service to Buzz.

"Believe me, no one wants to make the call to close Clubs. However, it is my belief that it’s these decisions that will allow us to restructure the business for long-term growth and to protect the livelihoods of our colleagues for the long run."

By Chris Slater