Caterham Croquet Club contributed to the Caterham Festival this year by opening its lawns to visitors to try their hand at the game. Last Sunday, 16th June saw around 20 visitors wielding a mallet during the afternoon, most for the first time, on the oval at the front of Queen's Park. The weather stayed dry and all enjoyed a game of golf croquet, an easy way to learn the basic techniques of hitting straight and judging distance. Everyone even managed to run a few hoops! The age of the players ranged from very young to old, showing how accessible the game is for all ages. Croquet is also the only sport in which women and men play on an equal footing making it the ideal hobby for couples looking for a shared pastime and several husband and wife pairs joined the Festival fun.

Afterwards, Jon Male from Caterham Croquet Club said: "We were delighted to see so many people having a go today. Our club is keen to encourage people to try this fascinating and enjoyable game and welcomes new members at any time of the season, offering a reduced rate for those joining part way through the summer."

More information about the club can be found at Caterham-croquet.org.uk or contact Jon at 020 8660 1919.