Founded in 1951, Clacton Railway Social Club in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex is a thriving community venue with something to offer each and every one of its 1,800 members
In the town of Clacton-on-Sea on the Essex coast, situated within the community it has served for over seven decades, stands the Clacton Railway Social Club. Founded in 1951, the club has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving from a traditional members' club for workers on the East Coast Railway into a pulsating hub of community spirit, inclusivity and innovation. Now, having already been crowned 'Community Club of the Year' at the prestigious Club Mirror Awards in 2023, it is currently in contention for the title of 'CIU Club of the Year' for 2025.
Those lucky enough to count themselves as members will understand precisely why this nomination is not just deserved, but a testament to a truly extraordinary team effort on the part of committee and staff – as well as the wholehearted support given to them by the membership. The club's renaissance can be traced to a pivotal decision in 2019, when the membership voted to officially rebrand as a community club. This was not merely a change of name, but a fundamental shift in philosophy. A concerted effort was made to throw the doors open wide, inviting everyone in the community, regardless of background, identity or belief, to find a place where they belong and join the club.
The results have been staggering. Member numbers have swelled by an incredible 700 in the past 12 months alone, reaching a total surpassing the 1,800 mark, with a waiting list testament to its soaring popularity. This growth is not accidental; it is the direct result of a vibrant and diverse programme of activities that caters to all ages and interests. From bingo and chair aerobics to a board games club to a cheese and dominoes group to watching live sport on the club's TV screens, there is scarcely a day without something engaging happening.
The club kitchen provides a vital social lifeline, serving everything from Sunday roasts to themed meals on tribute nights, ensuring the club is a place to dine and connect, as well as somwhere to enjoy an array of quality drinks at the bar, including a selection of well-kept cask ales. Indeed, the club's spirit of community was highlighted in an episode of the BBC1 documentary series We Are England filmed in 2022 which focused on how the club's members view their colleagues as a second family. This was not the only appearance of the club on national television and two years ago, rapper and comedian Big Narstie visited the venue to get a crash course in darts for an item on his late-night Channel 4 show.
Darts is certainly a huge part of the club and its forward-thinking ethos has led to the formation of a groundbreaking Youth Darts Academy which takes place each Saturday morning. Launched in May of last year by none other than Wayne 'Hawaii 501' Mardle, the former professional darts player turned Sky pundit, it has blossomed from a small group of eight children to a thriving community of 50 young people, ranging in ages from eight to 17. "The children taking part have all gained skills in their dart playing, maths and socialising as they share a common interest," says Club Treasurer Alison Sherman.
Run by dedicated parent and committee volunteers, including Club Secretary Alan Kirkham, the Academy is about more than sport. "We have been holding fundraising events and have been able to provide all the players with a club t-shirt," says Alison. "We provide competition nights to celebrate the children's achievements by giving out certificates and trophies and darts equipment to help them practise at home.
We are a family club, and therefore the families of the children playing come along to help cheer them on and have a bite to eat from our club kitchen." It is a holistic approach that nurtures both talent and community bonds, ensuring the club's future is in safe hands.
The darts tradition is a longstanding one in the club with a number of adult teams successfully competing in the local leagues and tournaments while several junior players are already starting to make an impact on the wider darts scene, their skills nurtured by the club.
This profound sense of care extends to every single member, thanks to one of the club's most innovative initiatives: the volunteer Welfare Officer. Held by Neil Aylward, this role is pivotal in ensuring the well-being of the membership.
The committee's commitment here is deeply personal. "If members become unwell or in need of support, the club committee members will step in to help – providing support such as food hampers, hospital pick-ups and drop-offs, or attend appointments with members if requested to do so," says Alison.
The support network is comprehensive, from helping with form-filling and benefit applications to visiting vulnerable members who live alone. "We give cards and flowers, chocolates or vouchers to wish them well when they're ill," she says.
This is a club that truly looks after its own, embodying the very best principles of the CIU movement.
The club's generosity radiates outwards into the wider Tendring community. Its fundraising efforts are relentless and heartfelt, supporting causes close to members' hearts. Current initiatives include raising funds for Shorefields Primary School, a local school for children with learning disabilities; the Jaywick Mens Club SHED for mental health support; and the charity NEST, which provides beds and bedding for local children in need.
They also consistently raise funds for Macmillan and Dementia UK. Furthermore, the club actively supports local LGBT+ groups, hosting a bi-monthly quiz for them, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to being a space for all.
None of this would be possible without the small army of dedicated volunteers who form the club's committee. These individuals give their time tirelessly, and their passion is the engine of the club's success. Alison Sherman is quick to pay tribute to two stalwarts in particular. The first is Vice-Chairperson Wendy Haywood.
"Wendy is the first face that greets our members daytime and evening," says Alison. "She helps to support our members individually and has always got time for our members no matter how busy she is. Wendy will always be the first to get up on the dance floor in the evenings to encourage others."
"Her role is multifaceted, from running the popular bingo sessions to decorating the hall and helping wherever needed, be it behind the bar or in the kitchen. Wendy always has a smile on her face and her warm, approachable aura is such an amazing quality. The club would be lost without her."
The second figure is Club Secretary Alan Kirkham whose dedication knows no bounds. "Alan goes above and beyond his job description and works at the club seven days a week," says Alison. "His workload is staggering. He single-handedly sources, arranges, and books all the weekend entertainment – Friday tributes to acts like Elvis and Abba, and Saturday live bands who now seek out the club for its renowned atmosphere. He manages the darts and pool leagues, runs the club's social media, handles memberships, and supports the bar management. Alan also gives up his Saturdays to help the Youth Darts Academy."
Alison adds: "Nothing is ever too much for Alan and he is always happy to help. He is a familiar face known by all our members." The club's physical space reflects this commitment to members. Recent renovations include a new access ramp with handrails and beautifully revamped toilets with disabled facilities and a baby-changing area, ensuring everyone can enjoy the club in comfort.
As evening falls on a weekend, the Clacton Railway Social Club truly comes alive. The sound of a live band or a tribute act will usually fill the air, families gather for a meal, and there will be plenty of dancing throughout the evening. It is a place where generations can meet, where isolation is replaced with companionship, and where a simple membership card represents a key to a caring, vibrant community.
The CIU Club of the Year award seeks to honour excellence, innovation, and community impact. In every conceivable way, the Clacton Railway Social Club doesn't just meet this criteria; it defines it. It is a beacon of what a modern social club can and should be, and a most worthy contender – alongside several other outstanding CIU venues – for the title in 2025.
