Constitutional Club in Bury St Edmunds to close after 135 years
The Constitutional Club in Bury St Edmunds will close its doors after 135 years due to financial struggles and the cost-of-living crisis.
Bury St Edmunds, Constitutional Club, UK, LGBTQ+, Community
Bury St Edmunds: The Constitutional Club is closing after 135 years. It will have its final day this Saturday.
Emma Warren, the club’s chairperson, shared that the club is shutting down due to financial losses. The cost-of-living crisis has hit hard.
The club has 319 members and employs one full-time and five part-time staff. It has been a hub for community events and gatherings.
Last year, the club hosted the town’s first LGBTQ+ pride festival, which attracted over 200 attendees. It also held monthly discos for adults with special needs.
Emma expressed sadness over the closure, thanking all members and staff for their support. She has been chairperson for over two years.
She mentioned that the pride festival was her proudest achievement. The future of the festival is uncertain now that the club is closing.
Emma highlighted how the club was a safe space for many, especially for adults with learning disabilities. It fostered a sense of belonging for everyone.
On the last day, members can enjoy half-price drinks as a farewell gesture.