Selby Railway Club

History of Selby Railway Club

The club was formed under British Rail in the 1950s by members of Selby Loco (Engine Shed Staff) Selby Station staff and Signalmen from the Selby area as part of British Railways Staff Association with a view to promote social activities for railway employees and their families.

Councillor Cyril Coultish, an engine driver at the time, was the club's first president and the branch started holding fundraising events in the Londsbrough Hotel's market room.

In 1957 with a grant of £5000 from British Rail and a plot of land that used to be a telegraph pole store yard the first one roomed club was built. This had a snooker table that was covered on a Saturday night when live entertainment was put on and the committee wives put on a free buffet to attract members.

Over the years the club has been extended with the additions of a games room and then a lounge, Then a new games room was added and the original turned into a restaurant

The bar, toilets, committee room, and stage have all moved about the club to various locations over the years to end in their present positions.

A number of years ago with the break-up of British Rail “B R S A” were disbanded but Selby members bought the freehold of the club and renamed it Selby Railway Sports & Social Club. The old “B R S A” organisation was reformed by member clubs as the National Federation of Railway Recreational & Sports Clubs and membership opened up to local residents and also other clubs were invited to join the organisation.

I am led to understand that the Federation are looking at changing the name to The National Federation of Recreational & Sporting Clubs, as a way of attracting more clubs to join.

I hope this short history is of interest to you and if you require any further information please contact the club 01757 703880 ask for Mr Keith Allison, Club Secretary .. Monday and Thursday nights ( after 8.30) Friday and Saturday nights after 9.00pm and Sunday dinner time till 4.00pm