The original “Ivy Leaf Club” was inside an ex-army hut installed in the village in 1921 by Utrick Ritson. In 1939 foundations were laid for the new club on the same site.
There was a large room with a dance floor and tables at the other end. There was also a stage for performances.
Barry Henderson was attracted to the Teddy Boy culture in his youth. He was refused access to the club one evening because he was said to be inappropriately dressed in brightly coloured, striped trousers. The dress code was suit and tie for the men.
During Miners’ Fortnight (2 weeks holiday) an outing to the seaside was organised by the Ivy Leaf Club. Some say 10, others 26 coaches carried excited families to the coast for the day. The miners welfare gave the children 2 shillings as spending money for the funfair and chips.
Mothers and children spent the day at the beach, while the men were drinking in the pubs. Families would hire tents, arranging them in a ring to create their own Burnhope by the sea. Sandwiches were egg, tomato and sand!
Some people considered the old Ivy Leaf Club as cliquey, remembering getting in trouble for sitting in someone else’s seat!
The Ivy Leaf Club was requisitioned by the Military Authorities for billets for servicemen in 1941.