The club was established in 2004 as an interest group within the Penrith U3A organisation by a group of novice players wanting to 'have a go'. A visit to the Keswick Croquet Club was arranged during which the rudiments of the game were explained. A local croquet enthusiast Canon Gervase Markham allowed the group to use the croquet lawn and equipment at Morland Hall.
In 2005 the group set out to find their own premises. Following an approach to Eden District Council an area of ground adjacent to the football pitches at French Fields in Penrith was allocated. At the same time the group applied to join the Croquet Association (CA) and as a result were introduced to John Beech from the Pendle & Craven Club, who at that time was the development officer for the North West Federation of Croquet Clubs (NWFCC). John arranged the loan of equipment from the CA and NWFCC and visited the club to help set out the lawns and give advice. Unfortunately the contractors responsible for cutting the grass were unsatisfactory and it became clear that a better venue was needed.
At the start of the 2006 season an agreement was made with the Trustees of the Langwathby Sports Ground to use a level area of the cricket outfield. This site had the advantage of regular lawn maintenance and full use of the clubhouse and storage facilities.
Towards the end of 2007, it became apparent that to develop fully the club should become independent of the U3A organisation. The club is now open to members of all ages and the commitee aim to further improve the standard of play and enjoyment of the game through coaching and competitive play. |