Sussex County v Wimbledon All England Lawn Tennis (& Croquet) Club friendly match

On 12th August Fiona Phillips, Robyn Clark, Vincent L’Estrange, Tony Jolly, David King and Linda Gavigan set off early for a friendly match against Wimbledon.

After coffee and a brief tour of the club house we were ferried to the croquet lawns, tucked away behind the main club site. The lawns, recently in use as practice courts for the Wimbledon Grand Slam, were in great condition and played very well.

As we’d done the last time our hosts came to Southwick, we each partnered one of their team for two very enjoyable rounds of doubles which were hard fought but great fun.

The temperature had reached 30c+ by the time we stopped for a delicious (and air conditioned!) lunch. One of the highlights was chatting to Robert, the AELTC historian and archivist who joined us for the day (back row, first left in the photo). A mine of information on the history of the club, tennis and croquet. When we returned to the lawns the heat was such that only one further game was possible. A complete contrast to the weather last year when our visit was cancelled due to torrential rain. If only!

A leisurely tea and cake back at the main club house rounded off a lovely day.

As always, the Wimbledon hospitality was outstanding and we look forward to welcoming them to Southwick at the beginning of September. Traditionally these friendly matches are played home and away on alternate years but as last year was cancelled due to the weather we’re doing both this year.

Linda Gavigan