Wow - I did not intend open the old can of worms about clubs and their sometimes inane politics. Slightly close to topic, I have been a member of a couple of R/C model flying clubs, and they sometimes have extremely complex political issues. Some committee members seen to think they are god-like and run the clubs as if they owned them, when really all the bog standard member wants to do is go fly their aircraft and have a bit of fun.
I learnt to fly both fixed wing and heli at White Waltham and the club there, in my opinion, is pretty damn good. Great instructors, good aircraft choice, lovely airfield, and a good social scene.
Thanks everyone for the interesting postings.