Gateshead Cleveland Hall CA
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Club History ........... Cleveland Hall Boys Club was formed in the Low Fell area of Gateshead, England in 1955 by Harry Watson in order to serve community needs at the time. Originally the premises were situated in an area known as Cleveland Street, hence the name of the club. This area is now a housing estate and that development, in 1968, meant new premises had to be found. Dryden Road The club moved to Dryden Road High School in Gateshead. This made it more accessible to areas such as Deckham, Low Fell and Wrekenton and the clubs popularity increased resultantly. The Club was being run on weeknights in conjunction with the soccer teams which played at the week-end. Despite the name the club is, and always has been open to both sexes. In 1980 the club moved once more to new premises, this time on Chowdene Bank in Low Fell. Glenbrook House – Chowdene Bank The building had previously been used by Chowdene Meccano Boys Club but was in a poor condition and required a great deal of work. The premises had been erected in 1872 and were stone built, comprising of 4 medium size rooms and a kitchen. When taking over these premises the club became a voluntary organisation and therefore not eligible for financial help. A great deal of work was done on these premises over the next 15 years, despite its location meaning that it was a prime target for vandals. A grant was obtained for a outdoor 5 a side pitch to be built in the area of wasteland to the rear of the premises and that was completed in 1992. This area was floodlighted soon afterwards. Pool tables were put inside the club and a fitness room was installed for players who required treatment after week-end exertions. Newcastle Breweries installed a non-alcoholic bar in the club room in 1992 and the youth club was regularly being attended by up to 100 youngsters three nights a week. Activities included Subbuteo tournaments, outdoor 5 a side and table tennis and drinks and sweets were available from the bar. Expansion During this time the football teams were undergoing unprecedented success and the club grew to include under 12 and under 13 teams as well as all the older age groups. This made the club one of the largest youth football organisations in the country. Numerous league titles were won at different age groups as well as county and regional cup competitions. This has come at a price however as the increased size of the club has resulted in increased costs in hiring pitches and training facilities throughout the winter. Arson |
