Sexual Equality in the UK

Whilst visiting family in Wales earlier this summer I happened upon this sign which cheered me up on an otherwise sombre day. I was at a funeral. The wake for said funeral was at a working men's club, a most British of institutions created originally so the working classes, men and women, would have somewhere to convene, socialise and generally get steaming. I am a fan of said concept as beer is cheap as chiperoos! Having lived in Sweden for nigh on 5 years you can imagine my joy of getting a three-drink round for less than £5!

As you can see, this particular club is a bit behind the times when it comes to gender issues and sport. Almost without exception, men in sport get more support, coverage, money and accolades tan their female counterparts but surely... surely waiting until 2009 to let some women use a snooker table in the pub is ridiculous!? Did they never think of it before now? Or was it voted down by committee members? How did they justify the permittance of women into the snooker room?

Committee member 1: Right fellas, we've had a few women saying they should be allowed to play snooker. What do we do?

CM2: I don't know, they're awfully irrational these females and are bound to go for red then pink all the time even though there is an easier shot on the black. It's in their nature!

CM3: True enough but we knew this day would come. After all, they did get the vote in 1928. I'm surprised we've kept them out for this long.

CM4: He has a point you know and if those stupid yankees can vote for a dark fellow as president then I see no reason why we can't allow women to play snooker in our club

All: Agreed

CM 2: But only with a membership card...

CM1: On Tuesdays...

CM4: Naked...

CM3: Too far, Archie, too far!

I've no doubt that's how it would have gone. None at all.

To training with me!