THE YMCA was once one of the strongest and most successful youth organisations in Oxford.

It was very active on the city’s sporting scene, playing a major role in football, cricket, boxing, table tennis, snooker and billiards.

Its presence in the city ended through lack of support in 2000.

The Young Men’s Christian Association, however, can reflect on a proud history in Oxford stretching back more than 150 years.

The organisation was founded in London in 1844, with the aim of catering for the spiritual and physical needs of young people.

The Oxford branch was formed in 1847 by a small group of men who met in dingy premises in Wheeler’s Yard in Norfolk Street, St Ebbe’s.

It stayed at Wheeler’s Yard for 21 years, but then led a nomadic existence, meeting at premises in Cornmarket Street, King Edward Street, St Aldate’s, Queen Street, New Inn Hall Street, St Michael’s Street, even the Mayor’s Parlour at the Town Hall.

But all that changed in 1891 when it opened St George’s Hall in George Street. One member later wrote: “It was a red letter day, for it contained accommodation and facilities which were the last word in comfort and spaciousness, offering opportunities for service open to few other organisations.”

As a result, membership and activities increased, and the YMCA enjoyed a hugely successful period.

However, disaster struck in 1917 when the building was destroyed in a few hours by a fierce fire. Members moved to premises above the Metropolitan Bank in Cornmarket Street, and it was not until 1923 that they were able to return to their rebuilt George Street headquarters.

Another successful period followed, but by the 1950s, the Oxford YMCA was in financial difficulties and decided to sell the George Street building to Elliston & Cavell, the department store, for £57,500 and move to Walton Street. A hostel was also opened in Iffley Road.

But financial problems continued.

Plans to redevelop the Walton Street site were abandoned and the building was sold, leaving the hostel as the only reminder of the YMCA in Oxford.

Even that was eventually sold.

Former secretary and treasurer Tony Heath recalls: “The lack of a central community meeting place finished the social side and the previously well supported table tennis and cricket teams faltered.

“Thriving football and boxing sections continued. But sadly, with no new enthusiasts coming forward to manage and support them, they finally ceased in about 2000.

“What was left of the investments was then transferred to the Henley YMCA.”

Any more memories of the YMCA in the city? Let me know.