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Casino Calpe takes a gamble with women - as attendance goes down to 12 persons daily
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by PANORAMA reporter
A dramatic decrease in the attendance of members at the Casino Calpe has led to the committee unfurling a plan, whereby this long-established man's club is to appeal to women.
Although the club has 287 members in their books, it sees a weekly attendance of some 40 persons, which includes members and guests. And the average daily attendance is put at around a dozen, with this figure dropping to about half-a-dozen after 7.30pm.
Only some 55 members are under 45 years old, which is less than 20% of the total membership, "despite the strenuous efforts of our committee to introduce worthy individuals to the club," they say.
It is not clear what they mean by 'worthy' individuals, but judging by results they may not be that worthy!
Be that as it may, 18 young members have joined in the last 5 months. "If they had not become members, this age group so important for our future would stand at only 13% of the total membership," it is disclosed.
In fact, even the much-vaunted club anniversary last November - the club was founded in 1853 - only attracted a lowly 35 members, even though there was complimentary food and drinks.
The committee is hitting its head against a brick wall, given the "worrying trend" that has set in. They reckon their vigorous efforts in organising club and social events are not having any positive effects.
"The attendance of club members continues to decrease dramatically," they say.
Such is the situation, that the committee has now decided to appeal to women to save this man's club.
The committee has come up with a proposal which is being put to the membership, that is: "It is felt that the club rules should be eased to allow members and their ladies to attend during club opening hours."
But all other functions would be kept as members only unless the occasion is suitable.
People are asking what are the suitable occasions when the women will be and will not be allowed in.
And others say that rules should be amended or not amended to allow women to enter the premises, but this idea of the rules being 'eased' does not seem right and proper.
It is also being asked if women should or should not be full members.
The committee says it has deliberated 'long and hard' and has consulted 'far and wide.'
They add: 'It is felt that members may feel constrained when out with their ladies in attending the club on days other than Fridays and Saturdays lunch time' - when women are apparently allowed in. Members are being asked to write in with their views before the end of the month. Meanwhile, they are to enter their names on a list at the club should they wish to attend their St Valentine's dinner dance with live music, presumably bringing their ladies with them.
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