Covid-19 has taken a terrible toll of sports activities, but at last there is proof that civilisation will survive - with the return of competitive croquet to Tunbridge Wells.

The Royal Tunbridge Wells Croquet Club is more than 50 years old and moved to its current location with three lawns in the Calverley Grounds in 1995.

Since Covid, it has been unable to play, but after meeting strict guidelines laid down by the Croquet Association it was able to play its first tournament of the season last week.

Club chairman Jon Diamond said: "It was very gratifying.

"Given the late start to the season there was a lot of pent-up demand, so we were able to have a full house of 12 players, ranging widely in handicap from six different clubs, including Southwick, Surbiton and Watford.

"One of our lawns had suffered over the winter due to some sad person who decided to practice turning circles with their Segway on it. It’s now bumpy and slow, but nevertheless the players overcame these problems successfully."

The members were not allowed to use the clubhouse and all the clips and balls had to be disinfected between each game. The players had also to stay in their "bubble" for morning or afternoon play, so that no group exceeded six in size.

Mr Diamond said: "A good time was had by all and we will be back for our next tournament on September 3."

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