CONSERVATIVE CLUB CLOSES
Membership numbers too low
A TORY members’ club has called last orders after more than 50 years in business in a Gwynedd town.
The Conservative Club in Pwllheli flew its flags at half mast on Sunday as it shut its doors for the last time.
It is thought that the closure is down to financial difficulties after membership dwindled.
At its peak the club is believed to have boasted more than 2,000 members, but by 2014 the number had declined to fewer than 800.
Paul Shaw, former secretary and treasurer, said: “I do feel it’s a great shame that they have had to close, it’s very sad for the town.
“I have strong family ties with the Conservative Club – my grandfather used to be the chairman, as did my father-in-law.
“It was a landmark of the town and was always a safe and enjoyable place to socialise. In the late 80s and early 90s business was booming, but in the latter years membership began to decline.
“A combination of this decline, ageing memberships and competition from other businesses put the final nail in the coffin.”
Mr Shaw, who joined the club as a member in 1985, started working as the secretary in 2008 and took on the role as treasurer in 2010.
He was also the licence holder for the premises.
“I left in 2014 after I was asked if I would be willing to do the job for free,” Mr Shaw added, “I refused and I was asked to leave.
“Despite the circumstances, we parted amicably, so I do feel it’s a very sad time for Pwllheli now that the club has closed.”
The Conservative Club committee declined to comment when asked about the closure.
The Association of Conservative Clubs and the Conservative Party also said that they were unable to comment on the closure of a private members club.