Have you ever wondered what happens when a group of friendly people, a few mallets and some very determined little balls get together at 10:30 am on a Saturday?
Something rather magical happens at the Trafalgar Park Community Hub, although, thankfully, there are no furious Queens of Hearts shouting, “Off with their heads!”
Croquet is played on the grounds where the Trafalgar Farmers Market is held in Ashby Street.
At first glance, it all looks very civilised.
Players stroll around with mallets, chat, laugh and encourage one another.
Beneath that calm exterior, however, is a game of strategy, precision, and occasionally, frustration.
There has been some lively discussion about suitable alternative expressions for those moments when the ball stubbornly refuses to go where it is told.
Suggestions have included “Sugar!”, “Naughty piglet!” and the particularly useful, “Well, that wasn’t in the plan!”
Perhaps this is where the Alice in Wonderland connection really comes in.
Like Alice, you never quite know what might happen once you step through the croquet gate.
The game can look whimsical and leisurely, but players soon discover that it involves plenty of tactics.
Our members are happy to teach newcomers, explain the rules and have a laugh along the way.
You can learn as you go, enjoy the fresh air and perhaps discover a new group of friends.
So, if you have ever thought, “I wonder what croquet is really like?”, why not come along and give it a try?
You might discover that Trafalgar has its very own little corner of Wonderland, complete with mallets, hoops, friendly faces and perhaps the occasional cry of, “Naughty piglet!”
New players are warmly invited to come along and have a go.
Come for the croquet, stay for the company!
Check out our Facebook page for more information at Trafalgar Park Croquet Club.
