A booze ban will force workers out of a social club where they have been able to relax for 40 years.

Brighton and Hove Bus and Coach Company has announced plans to improve staff facilities at its Lewes Road garage which will involve taking over the building currently used by Tramways Social Club.

The club, which is run by its own committee, not only has bus drivers as members but also council workers such as dustmen and road sweepers.

But when the building is revamped for the bus company, the club will be axed.

Roger French, managing director of the company, said he has given the club six months' notice from next month to find other premises.

Mr French said: "We now need the property to improve facilities for our staff.

"It is no longer our policy for alcohol to be bought on our premises. In today's climate it is no longer acceptable as a bus company.

"We have no responsibility for people not employed by us. The feedback from our staff is very positive about the investment to improve their facilities."

But the news has not gone down well with members of the club, which was originally established for employees of the old tram company 77 years ago who met in a wooden building.

By the early Sixties, the club had moved to its present home.

Events and activities for members include a pool team, disco, race nights, singers, bands, go-karting and parties and board games for children.

Doorman Chris Webb, 54, who has been working at the club since 1999, said members were upset at having to move.

A petition has been set up.

Mr Webb said: "A lot of people are annoyed about the fact the bus company is shutting it down.

"They feel the bus company ought to supply another building and refurbish it to the same standard as they have now.

"We are surrounded by student pubs here and people do not want them."

Another member, who did not want to be named, said: "It is a gathering point. People have half their friends in there and half their life."

The building is partly used by the club and partly comprises old offices.

When revamped, it will have a new canteen, showers and recreational areas.