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Update 1st May
April has been a busy month at Crake Valley.
The annual membership drive has proved successful. Eight local residents paid £10 for a “taster” session on 2nd April with the majority signing up for the next stage of “trial” membership (£30 for a further 3 Club “Roll Up” sessions). Three of this group have now completed the course and become full members (paying the balance of the due subscription taking them through to 31st March 2026).
The Handicap Golf team started its defence of the NW Federation League with a home win against Pendle and Craven whilst our “new look” level play team gave a good account away at 2024 Champions Bowdon losing 7-11. The Handicap AC team lost on the final game “golden hoop” away at Chester.
Our first tournament of the year was held. Eight pairs contesting the Alternate Strokes AC in warm conditions saw Andrew Gould & Paul Dowdall (Pendle & Craven) overcome last year’s winners (Rick Harding, Nottingham and David Harding, Llanfairfechan) in the final. The winners are pictured in action and with the magnificent trophy as well as with their personal mementos.
March Update
The Club’s Annual General Meeting, which saw an excellent turnout of 23 members, was held in February 2025 at the White Hart in Bouth, Cumbria. As part of the club’s “Charity of Choice” Initiative, a cheque for £100 was presented to Loretta Blackburn, Chair of South Cumbria NSPCC.
Looking ahead to the new season, members are eager to compete in both AC and GC within the Northwest Federation League and National Tournaments. The club will also field a strong squad at the NW Festival of Croquet in Southport this June.
To enhance weekend access to the lawns for members, the committee has scheduled all 2025 tournaments to be held mid-week.
Ongoing maintenance and improvements continue around the grounds, including tree pruning, lawn upkeep, and drainage enhancements near Lawn Three. The clubhouse has also received a full internal redecoration.
As part of the club’s two-year Membership Recruitment Campaign, a public Croquet Fun Taster Session will be held on Wednesday, April 2nd. This event aims to promote the sport and provide membership opportunities for new players. The club is also perusing a new initiative of “Social Prescribing” which connects people to the sport of croquet to help improve their health and wellbeing. It can help address a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression and loneliness.