About Us

 

Two landlords later, two local jazz loving, real ale and malt whisky enthusiasts decided to safeguard the future of jazz on Saturdays by taking over the organisation of the evenings. This was a fortuitous decision by Tim Mallinson and Les Brown and both have gained great satisfaction from seeing their efforts over a dozen or so years mature to gain national recognition as a first class venue with what is, arguably, the most appreciative and supportive audience in the UK. During this period, the Club began to present the best UK bands from a much wider area plus bands from abroad - and attracted world class solo artists.

 

As with the history of all jazz ventures, two further landlords later, the inevitable happened and, following renovations at the hotel in 2003, the Club was forced to seek an alternative venue. Tim and Les were joined enthusiastically by local entrepreneur, Ken Waller, who quickly identified the Trustees Hall in the village as a potential solution to the problem. With typical energy, Ken set about to convert the substantial but relatively basic Hall facility to a warm and welcoming “Cabaret style” environment. This has proved highly successful – more space, a relaxing  atmosphere and, rewardingly, more audience – up 50% on average.

 

Sessions are held every Saturday evening either in the Main Hall or in the adjacent Jubilee Room. We continue to present the very best of British and overseas bands plus international world class soloists. The latter have included Marty Grosz, Scott Hamilton, Ken Peplowski, Alan Vache, Warren Vache, Jeff Barnhart, Jim Fryer, Roy Williams, Tommy Whittle, Alan Barnes, John Barnes, Dave Shepherd with Roger Nobes plus the late and much missed Ralph Sutton, Don Lusher, Kenny Baker and Ronnie Verrell.