Image: Soldiers sitting in at the Jackson Club. © SASRA
It is with a heavy heart that we announce that the Jackson Club (or ‘Jacko’ as it is affectionately known) will be closing on Wednesday 2 April 2025.
The Jackson Club is the surviving legacy of the network of Miss Daniell’s Soldiers’ Homes launched in 1863.
While we would greatly love to continue running the Jackson Club, it is not possible in the current economic climate. For several years now, the Jackson Club has been subsidised by charitable giving to support the wellbeing of soldiers serving and training in Minley. Over the last decade, the running costs have grown to an unsustainable level and a declining footfall at Minley has further challenged the efficacy with which we fulfil our charity’s mission and priorities.
In our lifetime, many have used terms like ‘beloved institution’ to describe the Jackson Club, favoured by The Royal Engineers (past and present) and all other regiments based at Gibraltar Barracks. On the surface it looks like a regular high street café, but it is more than that. The Jackson Club is a much-loved welfare facility, a unique space where soldiers of all ranks have gathered to eat, to relax, to connect with others and to find support. A plate of cheesy beans on toast is an absolute must, a rite of passage for every soldier.
The Jackson Club building.
The staff exude friendliness, a willingness to listen and provide practical support, especially to those who have run out of cash. We have celebrated with many soldiers who have passed driving tests, married, become parents and advanced in their military careers. Our patrons are more than customers; they are participants in an experience that will never be forgotten.
It has been a privilege to serve the soldiers at Gibraltar Barracks for the past forty years.
To Queen, to country, but oh! Most to Thee, my life to give, who gav’st Thy life for me.
PRAY WITH US
- Praise God for the Jackson Club and all who have passed through its doors over the last forty years.
- Pray that the love and care shown and gospel seeds sown at the Jackson Club would still resonate in the hearts and minds of military personnel, past and present.
- Give thanks for the utter commitment shown by ASR Kevin Wadsworth and the Jackson Club staff. Pray the LORD would provide them with what they need and grant them peace as the club closes.
