A Social club which has been running in Melksham for more than 100 years is appealing for community support after soaring energy costs left it facing serious financial difficulties.
Spencer Sports and Social Club was founded in the 1920s as a working men’s club for employees of Spencer (Melksham) Ltd, which later became GEC Mechanical Handling Ltd.
Today, the club on Beanacre Road hosts a range of regular entertainment and sporting events, as well as community initiatives including Covid vaccination and blood donation sessions.
Secretary Leroy Shand said the club’s energy bills had used up a large amount of the funds it had built up and had placed considerable pressure on finances.
“The situation is very serious in our eyes,” he said. “We have no intention of closing the doors, but myself and our treasurer are constantly having to juggle things to make sure the bills are paid.”
Leroy took over as club secretary in October 2023 and said plans had already been in place to modernise the venue, which he said had not been properly updated for more than 30 years.
The fundraising appeal aims to raise as much as possible, with the money going towards improvements including upgrading the toilets and members’ area. The club also hopes to create a play area at the rear of the building.
“We want families to be able to come in, enjoy a drink and spend time together, while their children have a safe area where they can play,” he said.
The club says it is also working to address its longer-term financial position, including seeking help with its current energy contract.
“If we can get the energy costs under control, it would make a huge difference,” said Leroy. “The energy contract we are currently on was already in place when I took over, and the rates are extremely high. It is putting a huge amount of pressure on the club.”
Leroy said the club is “much more than just a social club,” highlighting the range of activities and services it has hosted over the years. These have included NHS blood donation sessions and leg clinics, Covid vaccinations, speed awareness courses, weddings, wakes and celebrations of life, live music and entertainment, as well as darts, poker, pool, bowls and skittles.
“We have had some really positive responses to the appeal, which has been amazing to see,” added Leroy. “I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everyone who has donated so far. It really does mean a lot to us and to the future of the club.
“Any support would mean a great deal to us. Whether you are able to donate or simply share our fundraising page with friends and family, every bit of support helps us get closer to giving Spencer’s the future it deserves.”
To donate, call the club on 01225 702216 or visit the fundraising page.
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