The Clubland Empire ? My Part in Its Downfall

Entertainer and show business writer and publisher Mark Ritchie documents his personal experience of the decline of the once-mighty Northern working men’s clubs that offered live entertainment reflecting the lives and dreams of their audiences. Although not a household name, Yorkshireman Mark is a familiar name to show business insiders for over 30 years. His career as a stand-up comedian has seen him travelling the globe performing comedy on cruise ships and international nightclubs. Since turning full-time professional back in 1983, he has worked in the steadily declining world of the northern club and cabaret scene, providing fascinating stories from the working men’s clubs and holiday centres.