This was a rescheduled event held on Saturday 8th September, as the traditional July day fell victim to the heavy rainfall and the Ickworth Lawns were flooded. However, Ickworth management kindly let us hold the event on the day before the singles tournament and all clubs fell in with the arrangements.

Nine clubs fielded 16 pairs and the day was very full as we tried a new format of two groups playing on four lawns. (Formerly there had been four groups playing on two lawns.) This achieved the aim of bigger groups and seven games for each pair of players. No rest times. The introduction of extra turns based on handicaps seemed to work well, given the range of expertise and experience of the participating players. Clubs represented were Chelmsford, Bury, Purleigh, Downham Mkt, Colworth, Southchurch Park, Newport and Sudbury.

The group winners went through to the final, which was between Sarah Strover and Geoffrey Wilcox (Sudbury) and Martin and Linda Ambrose (Downham Mkt). After a close game Sarah and Geoffrey won 7-5.

The croquet days held at National Trust properties are always a joy and well supported. Importantly, they attract players who are in their first season of play as the atmosphere is so enjoyable, friendly and non-threatening. Let's hope they continue for many years to come.

Thank you Ickworth for letting us use their facilities.

Jean Horton

This was a scheduled event and completed a weekend of croquet at the grounds of Ickworth Hall, Horringer near to Bury St. Edmunds. The tournament, competently managed by Ann Sweeney and assisted by members of the local club, had attracted a full entry. Despite a late withdrawal due to unforeseen circumstances a reserve was on hand to fill the gap in the scheduled programme.

The competitors were split into four blocks on an all-play-all basis with the block winners proceeding to a semi-final and final play-off. The winner of Block A Edme Robinette (Bury) played Cynthia Sandells winner of Block B, also from the same club, whilst Bob Woodd-Walker (Colchester) winner of Block C played Martin Ambrose (Downham Mkt.) winner of Block D.

The four block winners

Winner Edme Robinette
with Peter Allnutt

The resulting winners Edme and Martin met in a thrilling final that went on for some time. Edme, the higher handicap, played a very cagey game using her bisques to good effect. Whilst Martin brought all his experience into play and came very close to the winning post, Edme managed to hold on to her last two bisques which, expertly used, gave her the game 7-5.

Peter Allnutt the EACF Chairman presented the prizes.

Terrey Sparks