Ripon Spa Croquet Club is extending an invitation to anybody who would like to learn more about the game through taking part in a free taster session.
The club, whose lawns are located within the Studley Royal Cricket Club (SRCC), is holding two introductory sessions between 6pm and 7.30pm on Monday, April 17 and Monday, April 24.
Club secretary Sue I’Anson told the Stray Ferret:
“We had similar taster sessions last year which helped up to attract some new members and are hoping to build on this as we look to bring on the next generation of players.
“With this in mind, in addition to the introductory sessions at the Studley Royal ground we are, with sponsorship from the Croquet Association, making arrangements to visit two Ripon junior schools, where we will set up mini courses for the children to try their hand.”
She added:
“This is a great game for people of all ages, with the more seasoned players helping newcomers to master the technique of swinging the mallet and making good contact with the ball.
“It’s a sport that can be played at all levels, from simple enjoyment to the highest international standards.”
Anyone wishing to take part in the sessions should book in advance via email.
International pedigree
The club relocated to SRCC in April 2021 following the closure of the Spa Hotel, where it had previously played.
Formed as Ripon Spa Hotel Croquet Club, it was founded in the early 1990s by Croquet Association Federation officer Keith Smith, hotel owner Andrew Hutchinson and managing director Samantha Currie.
It soon attracted players from across the district, including Harrogate, Knaresborough, Boroughbridge and Pateley Bridge.
By 1997, Ms Currie, Mr Hutchinson and clubmate Syd Jones all achieved world rankings and took part in the GC World Championships in Cairo and the pristine lawns within the hotel’s gardens had the distinction of hosting international matches.
Read more:
Harrogate College holds free taster sessions for adults
Harrogate College is to host free taster sessions for adults in November.
Dubbed the “Have a Go Fortnight”, the sessions will be held as part of a Festival of Learning.
Run between November 1 and 12, the events aim to inspire adults to take up learning and get a taste of the college’s curriculum areas.
The sessions come as Luminate Education Group, which runs the college, was given £17 million from West Yorkshire Combined Authority to improve adult skills.
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The taster events at the college will include hairdressing, still life drawing, soundscapes film and animation, ceramics and print and computer software interior designs.
Danny Wild, principal at Harrogate College, which is on Hornbeam Park, said:
“Adult education has been one of the hardest hit sectors following the pandemic. Therefore, we’re committed to working with adults in our community to provide life-changing opportunities through quality education, which is tailored to meet the needs of our local employers.
“Over two weeks, we’re inviting adults aged 19 and over to come into college to discover our range of diverse subjects as part of an employer-led curriculum. Our nurturing and inclusive environment will allow adults to find their spark by learning something new, enhancing employability and improving wellbeing.”
To find out more about the sessions, visit the Harrogate College website.