Cheltenham social club celebrates milestone anniversary

A social club in Cheltenham has officially marked its 150th anniversary with a Gala Dinner to champion everyone who has been a part of the organisation over many years.

The New Club based just off Montpellier Parade with Eagle Tower just above the building has an interesting story to tell because in the words of one member "it is not everyday that a social club can be said to celebrate its 150th birthday!"

It was in 1874 that The New Club was founded by Indian Army Officers, British Army Officers, Naval Officers, members of the Civil Service and men of medicine. The founding of the club came about due to those who returned from serving in the Indian Raj when they built a magnificent new club to remind them of their officers mess or their London Club.

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In fact the building (as you can see in the old picture below) was where the club once was on the corner of The Promenade and Oriel Road, but in 1970 because the building became too big for its members, the Regency house you can see today is where the club moved to.

A club of 250 members, a four-course banquet prepared by the club's resident chef Carl Stevenson, Victorian music hall songs, light opera and a magician were all part of the celebrations as well as an evening auction hosted by TV auctioneer and antiques dealer Philip Serrell. The auction raised £10,000 for The New Club and inside you can tell how much Regency architecture there is with the curved staircase.

Marilyn Burn, organiser of the 150th celebrations said: "This magnificent occasion provided a memorable and fun evening for 80 members of the Club with a bow to the past and setting the standard we intend to achieve for the next 150 years."

The New Club say they welcome new members and "many of our members are true Cheltonians who have lived here all their lives and they make a valuable contribution to the club", member Jane Moyle said. "We have activities every day with delicious bar lunches served and some wonderful dinners based on a different theme every week as well as having monthly lecture suppers. We have achieved a great deal in our 150 years."