46 November 2015 www.bahrainthismonth.com interview MARKING A MILESTONE The British Club of Bahrain in Umm Al Hassam has gone by several names since it was founded in 1935. However, its purpose has remained the same — providing a home away from home for members. Live music, party games, food and fun are all on the agenda for the anniversary, which runs from November 5 to 7. The celebrations, which will be spread over three days, kick off with a 1930s-themed ball, a subtle nod to the club’s heritage. “Although the club prides itself on being modern and progressive, the ball is a throwback to a bygone era,” explains general manager, David Endall. “Think Fred and Ginger and The Great Gatsby.” The evening will feature popular expat band Frankie and Friends as well as entertainment from magician Nabeel Arshad. The Friday will feature music from the Tax Dodgers and a barbecue and the celebrations conclude on Saturday with a fun family fete. Despite his obvious respect for the club’s past, David says the future is the key to its success. “I think the key to the club’s longevity is its dedication to members and ability to change with the times,” he says. “We have the old minutes from the late 40s to early 60s and it was far more formal and less family-focused. We’re different; we’ve progressed and are now very much a familyorientated club.” Treasurer Tony Connor says: “The club has a diverse range of members. Membership is open not only to British nationals, but also Gulf nationals and nationals of other countries too small to have their own social clubs in Bahrain. Approval is subject to quotas being maintained, but the more British members we have, the more space is opened up for the other nationalities mentioned.” The club’s impressive list of facilities includes a state-of-the-art gym, library, two squash courts, two tennis courts, a large hall for plays and events, a large temperaturecontrolled pool and multiple dining venues. This, alongside a welcoming ambience and wide selection of popular annual events has not gone unnoticed. In fact, it was voted ‘Best Social Club in the World’ in the UK Telegraph’s Best of British 2010 awards. Not content to rest on its laurels, the club’s executive committee has a development programme that aims to improve facilities and build on its success. “The committee is always looking for creative ways to improve the club,” says David. “We don’t just give the place a lick of paint, we revamp our facilities as often as possible and try to utilise the space we have as best we can.” Call 17 728-245. CHARLIE HOLDING The Kingdom’s oldest expatriate club is celebrating its 80th anniversary this month with a weekend of activities to mark the occasion. David Endall
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