A social club that had been operating for more than 100 years has closed its doors for the last time. Brighton and Hove Sports and Social club, formerly known as Brighton Trades Labour Club and Institute, was forced to close up shop on August 4. The members-only club opened in 1916 when it was first known as Brighton and District Labour Club & Institute.
Its first premises were in London Road, until it moved to where the club would remain for the rest of its service in Lewes Road in 1963. Last year the club were on the brink of closing early after it was down its last £15,000 due to dwindling membership figures and rising costs. Volunteers Sandra Wood, club secretary, Keith Noquet, bar manager, and Denise Jerram, treasurer fought to keep the club alive.
The club is known for hosting a range of different events for its members, live entertainment and gigs, traditional and pub games whilst also having pool and dart teams. Left to right: Sandra Wood, Keith Noquet, Denise Jerram (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus) Sandra told The Argus last year: "If this place was to close, a lot of people would lose their lifeline completely. They have nowhere else to go, stuck in their homes looking at four walls rather than being able to get out and socialise.
"I would be devastated. The reason I keep fighting is for the people that come here. We are going to be here right until the very end.
" In March the club posted an update blog as to reassure members that things are improving and they w.