Dirty Stop Out's Guide to Coventry's Working Men's Clubs

The definitive story of Coventry’s working men’s clubs - back in print by popular demand Previously featured by the BBC and Coventry Telegraph, this much-loved book returns after more than two years out of print - just as Coventry’s clubland is back in the national conversation, with author Ruth Cherrington invited to speak at the annual conference of the Working Men’s Club and Institute Union. Written by the Coventry-born author and leading clubland expert, this is the first and only book to capture the full story of the city’s working men’s clubs - the venues that once defined social life for generations. Ruth Cherrington said: "So much has been written about the city down the years but nothing has ever covered the thriving Working Men's Club movement that used to be central to the lives of so many people - mine included. "My book celebrates the lost clubland of Coventry and I'm so grateful to the scores of people that have contributed. These amazing years will never be repeated and it has been my life's ambition to ensure they are never forgotten." A world brought vividly back to life Not even the Queen could resist a visit - touring Coventry Working Men’s Club in its 1970s heyday - while Princess Margaret was spotted at Willenhall Social. This was a city proudly known as the Queen of Clubs - home to one of the largest club scenes in the country. Inside, you’ll discover: The clubs that packed out concert rooms week after week The characters - from “supergran” darts champions to giant-killing snooker players The traditions - bingo, raffles, club trips and Christmas parties The entertainers who had to win over Coventry’s famously tough bookers The rise - and the struggle for survival as times changed. Told through first-hand memories, rare photographs and original research, this is a rich, immersive record of a lost world. Why this book matters Working men’s clubs weren’t just venues - they were the beating heart of communities. Families grew up in them. Friendships were formed in them. Lives were shaped in them. Many of the clubs may be gone - but their stories are not. If you remember the clubs, this book is for you Hundreds of memories, photos and untold stories A perfect gift for anyone who lived it A chance to rediscover a world that will never be repeated.