The Comrades Club 1980 to 1989
Godmanchester

1980 saw another milestone in the club's history when Trafford James stood down from running the Thrift Club after 26 years ably assisted by Fred Pauley. To ensure continuity Trafford's brother Mervyn, club secretary took over. The following year Trafford stood down from the general committee after 29 years service. 1980 also saw the 60th Anniversary of the club with a week long programme of activities and reduced beer prices.

1983 saw Mr Sid Bird elected as President with Mr Mick Gillett as Vice-President. Over the years the club had continued to prosper with bar takings continuing to rise, with sports activities and dances being an integral part of the club through an active social committee.

1985 the social committee brought in a club newsletter which has been a resounding success. Copies are sent by members to relatives in different parts of the world and in this year, the club's 75th Anniversary year the newsletter also celebrates its 10th Anniversary.

The mid to late 80's saw the club really prospering with bar takings at record levels. 1987 saw Mr John Hunter elected as Vice-President and also saw the start of further major alterations to the club, in relation to a new bar, foyer and toilets.

Plans were drawn up but because of various delays, works were not completed until November 1989. During the crucial part of the works the concert hall had to be used as the bar area which resulted in dances being cancelled and it is fair to say that some people who frequented the club for the dances have not returned. Many people will remember the green portable cabin used for the gents toilets which was parked on the car park and there were a lot of comments made about its usage.

In 1988 Hinchingbrooke Hospital launched an appeal for a Scanner. Organisations throughout the district raised money and the Comrades Club was no exception. Various functions took place in the club including raffles, groups giving their services free for a dance on Sunday nights and over a number of months the club raised a total of £3500.

At the Annual General Meeting on 23rd March 1989 the bar takings were reported as the highest ever. However then came the recession and like most places the club's fortunes began to suffer and bar takings went down over the next four years.