Although its membership is mostly civilian now, the decor at the United Services Recreation Club in Kowloon still reflects its origins as an officers' club - with paintings of military exploits such as the suicidal Charge of the Light Brigade and the like prominently featured.

But, concerned that an ambience reflecting the glory of the Empire may not be to the taste of the PLA which is to take control of the club in July, the management committee is considering changes to reduce the British tone of the decor.

Minutes of the last committee meeting posted on notice board reveal an altogether different picture of the club: of beer-stained carpets, dart boards and a cloth-cap clientele.