The Royal Norfolk Golf Club had been told by West Norfolk magistrates it would not have its alcohol licence renewed unless it changed its rules.

The club, which is not far from the Queen's estate at Sandringham, has some 120 women members.

Women have always been allowed to join the club, near Brancaster, but were barred from voting at meetings.

European laws

In July, magistrates gave the club until 5 September to change its rules.

Club secretary Major Nigel Carrington Smith said at the time: "We thought it might happen. It's a European thing I think.

"Clubs are not allowed to discriminate against any gender."

Under the 1964 Licensing Act, the rules that apply to clubs applying for a liquor licence say all members should have voting rights.