About Minchinhampton Cotswold Club

History

In 1919, the Minchinhampton Church Club Trust owned the building at 11 High Street, Minchinhampton. With only six members remaining, a decision was made at a meeting on 29^th September 1919 to lease the building to the recently established "Comrades of the Great War Club." A nominal rent of £10 per year was agreed upon, with the condition that the six remaining Church Club members be granted original membership status in the Comrades Club. This proposal was approved by the Comrades in September, and the agreement was signed on 1^st October 1919. From that date, 11 High Street became the new home of the "Comrades Club."

On 28^th August 1921, the Comrades Club joined the newly formed British Legion, and its name was officially changed. The British Legion Club was then established under the leadership of Brigadier General W.H. Fasken, the Old Comrades Commandant.

On 9^th September 1924, Mr. Woolacombe Boyce, one of the original six Church Club members, presented a "Roll of Honour" book to the branch. This book commemorated all the soldiers from Minchinhampton who lost their lives during the Great War. In 1991, the branch donated the book to the Minchinhampton Historical Society to ensure its preservation. Today, it is safeguarded by the Minchinhampton Parish Council.

The Club flourished over the years, earning numerous trophies and medals in sports such as darts, table tennis, billiards, and shooting (the Club even had its own shooting range). It also collaborated with other local groups to support football and cricket in the town. Additionally, the Club was actively involved in organizing social events, including concerts, dances, and whist drives, until the outbreak of World War II in 1939.

During the war, the Club opened its doors to members of HM Forces who were either stationed locally or on leave. It also served as the headquarters for the local Home Guard unit. Furthermore, the Legion operated a "Welcome Home Fund" to support returning servicemen from the district. Club membership, which had stood at 106 members at the start of the war, increased to 146 by the end of the war.

In 1946, the Church House Trust raised the annual rent from the longstanding £10 to £30. To meet this new expense, the Club formed a subcommittee to negotiate with the landlords. They sought either permission to apply for a bar license or the opportunity to buy the property outright. Following discussions, the Club decided to purchase the premises, making an offer of £800. The purchase was successful, and membership was subsequently opened to all men over the age of 18 in the district.

With the formation of the new Club, the British Legion Club ceased operations after 25 years. The new organization was renamed the Minchinhampton Cotswold Club on the 30th of September 1946. In exchange for contributions such as funds, furniture, and games equipment from the British Legion Club, certain conditions were agreed upon: the Minchinhampton Branch of the British Legion would be granted the use of a convenient room, free of charge, once a week for meetings and activities. This space would also serve as their official headquarters. Additionally, the Women’s Section of the British Legion, established in July 1949, would be allowed to share these rights.

This arrangement continues today. Notably, when the Minchinhampton Club formed, membership wasn’t limited to ex-service personnel or tied to joining the Royal British Legion.

The club now

Minchinhampton Cotswold Club was founded with a passion for providing a community hub for sports and social events. Our club offers top-notch facilities for our members to enjoy while socializing with like-minded individuals. We pride ourselves in offering membership prices and competitive bar prices to ensure everyone can access our club. Join us today and become a part of our growing community . In addition to our dynamic sports and social activities, we also host a range of events throughout the year, from live music nights to seasonal celebrations and family-friendly gatherings. These events are designed to bring people together, foster connections, and create lasting memories for our members and their guests. At Minchinhampton Cotswold Club, there’s always something exciting happening, ensuring you’ll always find a reason to celebrate with us.