Pinewood Social Club has celebrated a full year of trading after the original pub was closed in July 2016.

The directors and staff of the Pulrose pub have announced that they are looking forward to a ’positive future’ during their first annual general meeting as a social club.

Paul Henry, the new chairman, has thanked members of the public for their contributions that have continued to keep the club open.

He said: ’Though it has been hard work, it was worth it to see the club still trading and being used by so many.

’Their support was purely to help keep this local facility open, something which has helped enormously and made us believe in the project.’

The club operates on a members-only basis with an annual subscription of £20 or £10 for seniors.

’The money goes towards keeping the club open and keeping the prices down, which are on average 10% below brewery pub prices,’ Paul explained.

’Non-members can be signed into the club, but with restrictions. I would be delighted for people to visit us and to have a look.’

The Pulrose pub was closed in July 2016 by Heron and Brearley brewery who decided it was not keeping up with ’customers’ evolving preferences’, which demanded higher standards of quality and service.

However, Douglas South MHK Bill Malarkey led a successful campaign to save the pub by turning it into social club instead. Since then the club has been working closely with an elected entertainment committee to keep up with the changing preferences.

Paul said: ’We ’ve had some successful private functions and our bingo on Thursday nights has really taken off.

’A darts and pool team have just formed this year and we’re also looking for ideas for entertainment, especially on the weekends.’

’We’ve booked live music for New Year’s Eve, but we’re keen to develop this.’

He added: ’If any budding singers or bands are looking for a venue, please contact me on 450935.’