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Final curtain for smoke ban club
IT has welcomed the likes of comedian John Inman during its long history, but it was a Meat Loaf tribute act which closed the curtains on an emotional night at the Claremont Theatre Club.
Nestled in the heart of a North Shore residential area, the club has been a local for hundreds of members for nearly three decades.
But a nationwide smoking ban, imposed by the Government last July, has stubbed out the social club's fortunes, forcing owner David Hall to close its often-crowded concert room.
As regulars raised a final glass to its success, their thoughts turned to where they would enjoy their next pint with their friends – many of whom met in the hallowed hallways of this once successful business.
Supportive
With "Meat Loaf" in the background checking out his vocals, an emotional Mr Hall said: "It's going to be a very long evening saying goodbye to this place.
"The smoking ban is killing clubland, not only in Blackpool, but across the UK.
"I remember a time – not that long ago – when this place was packed every night.
"Now we are lucky if we get a handful of people.
"The members have been brilliant and very supportive. This place has a real community feel about it and even though it is closing. I feel I have made a lot of lifelong friends."
One of its longest serving members James Swire, 73, echoed the sentiment.
He said: "I've been here since the start. It'll be strange when it's closed as I won't know where to go for a pint."
Now The Claremont will hand over the keys to the club to Blackpool's Magic Circle this week.
Barmaid Jayne McKinnon, who is also David's partner, said: "It's a sad day for everyone here. I am pleased the place is not going to waste but it won't have the same feel about it.
"It's David I feel for the most. This is his life and he has put his heart and soul into making the club a success."
Starting off life in 1980 as the Claremont Sports and Social Club, it gained its "Theatre" name after one of David's regulars suggested putting artists on every week.
From 1996, the Theatre club has become a drinking den for local people, and welcoming in the odd famous face after treading the boards in Blackpool.
Regulars Loretta and John Wignall said John Inman was seen in the Claremont after gigs in the resort.
Mrs Wignall, 72, said: "John and his brother came in a few times. They liked the place and its atmosphere.
"It's a great little place and everyone will miss it."
Michael Taylor, 63, remembers better times and is in no doubt as to why the club is closing. He said: "I used to come when it was a bingo hall. I've had very happy times here.
"The smoking ban has killed this place. The Government should have thought more about the laws before they brought them in."
His wife Barbara, 68, said: "There's always been a real community spirit about the place. We have met so many of our friends here, friends for life."
Customer Carol Ramsden added her best wishes to the owner. She said: "It's such a shame for everyone but the smoking ban is to blame. I feel so much for David and his family, they have done an excellent job here.”
And for the final curtain-call David had one closing line, he said: “I just want to thank everyone – it’s been a fabulous time.”
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Weather for Blackpool
Wednesday 30 May 2012
Today
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Temperature: 12 C to 20 C
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