It's time to give croquet a try

Croquet was one of the first sports that it was possible to play when the initial lockdown restrictions were eased, as it naturally lends itself to social distancing when played

As families sought new forms of entertainment during the Covid-19 lockdown, online retailers reported increased sales of garden croquet sets. 

The Croquet Association experienced a 120 per cent increase in sales of equipment, John Lewis an increase of 600 per cent on the same period last year and many online retailers are out of stock. 

There was also a surge in enquiries from people wanting to join croquet clubs, though safety concerns meant no new members were being accepted.

Croquet was one of the first sports that it was possible to play when the initial lockdown restrictions were eased, as it naturally lends itself to social distancing when played.

Most croquet lawns are bigger than tennis courts.

Oldham comes within the Croquet Association catchment area for Bury Croquet Club - a very well-established club with venues in Bury and Radcliffe.

Enquiries from potential players from the Oldham area are welcome with a view to the new playing season next year.

Whilst it is not clear what the position will be next Spring when the 2021 season will begin, officials can only hope that circumstances will have improved.

Bury CC Publicity Officer, Roy Spencer, suggests that if you have bought a garden croquet set and developed your skills on your lawn at home, why not give the real thing a try?

A typical comment is: “I’m a new player and confess I was put off by the old-fashioned image.

"Turns out that croquet is an awesome game and I’m so glad I gave it a try."

The club, when able to operate normally has a regularly active social scene, operating a Winter programme, providing an opportunity to meet and make new friends of all age groups and backgrounds.

You can register your interest in joining Bury Croquet Club for the 2021 season by sending your details to: enq@burycroquet.com, or telephoning the Secretary on 07856 348706.

The club observes strict Data Protection protocols and details will not be divulged or shared with third parties.

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