Roehampton beat Nottingham to win the Inter-Club Tier 3 Bowl 4-3

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The victorious Roehampton team with the Interclub Tier 3 Bowl

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a summer well spent must conclude with a contest of skill and civility. Thus it was that the inaugural final of the National Inter Club Bowl was held at Wrest Park, a place of agreeable aspect and, on this occasion, unexpectedly fine-if somewhat bracing-weather.

The lawns, being neutral and well-kept, afforded an excellent stage for the meeting of two estimable clubs: Nottingham and Roehampton. Upon arrival, the assembled parties were received with the utmost hospitality-hot refreshments and biscuits being dispensed with such warmth as to rival the sun itself, which, though present, was not entirely persuasive in its heat. The Nottingham party comprised Mr. Andy Dixon, Mr. Tom Dewar, and Mr. Roger Steeper, under the capable direction of Mrs Cathy Turski. Their counterparts from Roehampton, led by Mr. Howard Railton, included Mr. Mike Tumath, Mr. Kevin O'Connor, and Mrs Carmel Brancen-a company no less distinguished in character and croquet.

The opening engagement-a doubles match between Messrs. Dixon and Dewar of Nottingham and Messrs. Railton and Tumath of Roehampton-was spirited and strategic. Though Roehampton prevailed with scores of 7-3 and 7-4, the contest was far more equal than the numbers might suggest, with several admirable jump shots and clearances eliciting murmurs of approbation from the spectators. Mr. Steeper, with quiet determination, overcame Mrs Brancen in two games, 7-6 and 7-2, while Mrs Turski and Mr. O'Connor, having each secured a game, sensibly deferred the conclusion of their match until the necessity of its outcome became apparent. Luncheon was taken in good humour and with much amiable discourse.

The afternoon saw a pleasing symmetry: two victories for Roehampton, two for Nottingham. Thus, the fate of the Bowl rested upon the final game of the match between Mrs Turski and Mr. O'Connor. The assembled company, though discreet in their attentions, could not help but observe with interest the unfolding drama. Mrs Turski, ever composed, met Mr. O'Connor's steady play with grace and resolve. Yet it was Mr. O'Connor who, maintaining his nerve, secured the decisive point, thereby delivering the Bowl into Roehampton's keeping.

The Bowl itself, a token of honour and accomplishment, was presented with elegance and good cheer by Mrs Patricia Duke-Cox, President of Croquet England, whose manner united dignity with the most obliging civility, and whose presence lent the occasion a further air of distinction.

Throughout the day, the spirit of the game was upheld with exemplary decorum. Compliments were exchanged with sincerity, and the pleasure of good company and fine croquet was universally felt. Wrest Park, in its elegance and generosity, proved a most fitting host, and all departed in their carriages with gratitude and contentment.