Bristol Area Full History
History of the
Bristol Area (continued)
Bristol area was formed in the early 1970s as the Bristol & West Area, but only became recognised within the organisation in 1975. One of its founder members was Terry Clarke, who moved from London area to the West Country. Terry served the area as Secretary for 16 years and Chairman for 2 years. In 1985 he was the first Bristol member to hold the office of National Chairman. In 1991 he was made a National Life Member for his services to the ‘club’.
In 1978 Bristol held its first Ladies’ Evening. Those with long memories will remember the first two functions for very different reasons. The first included an unintentional tour of Yatton cemetery for those who stayed overnight in accommodation nearby and the second for getting up peoples noses. A pinch of snuff was offered to all who attended our Medieval Banquet. We have now become more traditional in the format and up until recently, held our Ladies’ Evenings at the Commodore Hotel in Sand Bay, Weston super Mare. This year we are moving to Bristol.
During the late 1980s and 1990s the area held an Annual Gentleman’s Evening. These took the form of a Boxing dinner with well known TV comedians as the cabaret to close the function. This enabled us to support several local charities from the proceeds.
As the youngest area of the National Club, Bristol has always strived to uphold its traditions and had the honour of providing 4 National Chairman and the National Secretary during its existence.
Many friendships have been formed over the years and although most of the members are now retired from the transport industry, bonds remain very strong.
Anyone wishing to join us, please contact the Area Secretary.
