I wanted to write a little blog post giving an update about what is going on at Brighton And Hove Sports And Social Club and how its turning things around after a turbulent few years.
There are many reasons why the club has found itself in a difficult position over the past decade.
Covid, the cost of living crisis and not being able to adapt to a changing Brighton being some of them. However 2023 and into 2024 sees a great improvement and a direction we want to continue heading in.
During this time there has been a team of people trying to introduce new faces, bring in more entertainment and attempt a wide variety of activities to make it an exciting place to spend time at once again and I'm happy to say that this has been paying off.
Whether this is booking high quality acts such as The Vox Beatles (11th May), or welcoming in the Brighton and Hove Darts team, who will be arranging a variety of events, there is now so much more on offer at the club.
We have also been working closely with our friends -
- Swing City - providing dance lessons, socials and live swing band nights
- The Brighton Swing Choir - Rehearsing on Mondays and performing their regular end of term show
- Too Darn Soulful nights and all-dayers - Bringing a plethora of DJ's playing the best Soul, Funk, Motown vinyl.
- Jivin' Jim Dandy & Lady Laverne - Drag Queen Lady Laverne and her alter ego Jivin' Jim Dandy (or is that the other way around?) have performed a couple of special Saturday nights, with Jim now spinning the vinyl some Fridays after Jive lessons.
- Community - Mike (me) and the gang utilising the upstairs venue to bring in original acts and cover bands as an alternative to the bingo.
- Garry Mitchell - Club legend Garry has been keeping things tuneful with his karaoke practise and performance evenings.
In addition to the live entertainment, traditional games and pub games have been taking place at the club as well. We have welcomed back darts and pool teams, as well as introducing Crib and Bridge evenings.
Tea For Tarts has also been a roaring success! Once a month folk gather at the club to drink tea and eat lots of cake! (There is also entertainment, a raffle and a game of bingo, too. ;) )
The family fun days have been keeping past traditions of the old Trades and Labour club alive. I popped into the Easter fun day last Sunday and it was great seeing so many kids and young people having a good time. I was even happier because I came away with an Easter Egg!
If there is anything you would like to see at the club or you have any ideas regarding its future, please feel free to drop us a message via the contact form on the site. Alternatively, pop in! Come and speak to a member of staff or the committee.
We know there have been issues in the past and the crazy rumour mill hasn't helped things either but it would be a shame to see such a wonderful venue disappear, only to be replaced by a Sainsburys or block of flats.
It has certainly been a struggle to get to where we are but from here going forwards, we remain dedicated to nurturing a positive and welcoming environment, one that can be enjoyed by many more people for years to come!
- Mike
