Historic Poole men's society changes its name to attract more women members

“The Society of Poole Men has become the Society of Poole after nearly 90% of the members attending the 2017 Dorset AGM voted to change the name,” says press officer, Duncan Williams.

Working in the town’s communications industry, Duncan explains that the society was formed over 94 years ago and was established even before women had full voting rights in the country. He said, “Although the old name had a great history that we cherish, we needed to change it so as to increase the appeal of the society to both men and women. Unfortunately the membership has not grown recently and from discussions in the community the name is a factor. We want to encourage a mixed and modern membership.

“This brings us into the 21st century and better reflects us as a society and the many women who are presently members.”