PRESTONPANS Labour Club celebrated its 50th birthday last week - and plans to open a new gin and Prosecco bar.

Opened in 1968, the club threw a party to mark the milestone.

Derek Costello, club president, said: “At a time when many pubs and clubs are struggling to survive, the Labour Club is going from strength to strength.

“Following recent renovations to the lounge bar and function hall, the Labour Club will shortly open a new gin and Prosecco bar in the upstairs lounge.”

Harry Cairney, honorary club president – who was president for 33 years and served on the committee for 46 – added: “We are delighted to have reached such a milestone in the club’s history and are proud to have played an active part in the community throughout that time.

“As a social club we have always supported local sporting organisations, charitable organisations and been to the forefront in various local campaigns to defend and improve the lives of the community.”

Martin Whitfield, East Lothian MP, was also in attendance, and said: “Prestonpans Labour Club has been at the heart of the local community throughout its 50 years, as well as the many important political decisions, meetings and campaigns that have helped establish the club’s place in Scottish Labour history.

“It was at the Prestonpans Labour Club in the 1970s that the motion was passed that led to the establishment of the Scottish Parliament.”