Dress Code and Behaviour

A message from the Club Chairman, Ben Cussons

IN THE APRIL edition of this magazine, I reminded you of the importance of respecting the elegance of our clubhouses in how we behave and dress, and of always acting courteously towards our staff. Regrettably, I find it necessary to reiterate this message. Rather too often, staff are having to remind members and guests of what are acceptable standards of dress and behaviour – and this advice is not always being received with the grace it should be.

Specifically, we are, I’m afraid, having to deal with too many incidents related to behaviour, ranging from the inappropriate use of mobile phones to damage caused by unsupervised children or other unacceptable behaviour (when sober or not) in the clubhouses. Such behaviour will not be tolerated as it not only contravenes our rules but also shows a remarkable lack of respect for the Club as an institution and for the wider membership who do comply.

The Pall Mall dress code describes in detail the minimum required and leaves room for personal taste. However, it does state that “Members and their guests are asked to dress appropriately for the Club environment, time of day and occasion” – we expect everyone in Pall Mall to dress neatly; to be ‘well turned out’. Whilst we may have excellent sports facilities, neither clubhouse is a sports bar and hence we expect sports attire to stay where it belongs, especially with regard to footwear.

Finally, the staff at Pall Mall tell me that there are two common infringements which need emphasising. Firstly, phone calls may only be made or taken in the phone booths on the ground floor, in the Simms Centre Communications Room, in meeting rooms or in your bedroom. Secondly, outerwear and luggage (including umbrellas and carrier bags) may not be taken into the clubhouse’s public spaces or onto the terraces. They must be left in the cloakroom or your bedroom.

I hope this clarifies a number of important issues. I would expect that dress code and behaviour would be matters of common sense, but we will not hesitate to intervene to ensure that standards are maintained at both clubhouses. If you are approached by a member of staff, I would like to remind you that it is a specific requirement of the by-laws that members “carry their membership card with them at all times” and “present it to any staff member who requests it”. Please expect to be asked to leave the clubhouse if you are unable, or unwilling, to comply with this.

If you have any concerns you are welcome to raise them with the duty manager or with the Chief Executive, Daniel Pereira. For any further advice, please consult the ‘Visiting Pall Mall’ and ‘Visiting Woodcote Park’ areas of the Club website, email communications@ royalautomobileclub.co.uk or ask at reception in either clubhouse.

Thank you for your cooperation.