The origins of the game of croquet are a little obscure. The earliest theory is that it came to Britain from France in the reign of Charles II and derives its name from the Latin "Ball and Mallet", or in english "Pall Mall", and the walk in St James' Park - now called The Mall, received its name from where the King and his courtiers took exercise and practiced the game.
The second theory is that the game arrived from Ireland in the 1850s and had been brought there from Brittany. The famous Wimbledon Tennis Club enjoys the full title of "All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club". In the late 1870s some of the croquet lawns were converted into lawn tennis courts.
If you have ever fancied taking up the game why not come along to your local club which plays on the outfield of the Grayshott cricket pitch every Tuesday and Friday afternoons. We play both Association and Golf games and we give tuition to those who have not played before.
We can also provide the mallets, so there is no need to buy your own until you have decided "it is the game for you". It is great fun and we are a friendly group of all ages and abilities.
Weather permitting, we normally start in mid-April until late September. The membership for the season is only £15 and the first two attendances are free so that you can try it out without any commitment.
We look forward to welcoming you; please contact Bob Wilson 01428 713113 for further information.
email: croquet@headley-village.com