Pendle and Craven Croquet Club is a unique and vibrant club located in the picturesque pennine village of Earby in Barnoldswick, Lancashire. The club promotes a healthy lifestyle through the game of croquet, offering a truly fascinating experience for all members.
One of the distinct advantages of being a member of Pendle and Craven Croquet Club is its location, which makes it eligible to compete in both the East and West Pennine League fixtures. This means that members have the opportunity for twice as much competitive play compared to other clubs. However, the club also welcomes social members who may prefer a more relaxed and casual experience.
The club caters to players of all skill levels and runs beginners sessions and internal competitions throughout the season. In addition, the club supports federation leagues on both sides and hosts various national tournaments organised by the National Croquet Association. Members have the flexibility to play at any time, with club sessions available on Monday afternoons, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, Saturdays, and some Sundays. This allows members to easily meet and interact with other club members.
Aside from its dedication to croquet, Pendle and Craven Croquet Club also boasts a busy social calendar. The club organises quiz nights and other special events throughout the year, which often involve a bit of indulgence in alcohol.
While the main playing season typically runs from March to October, the club also hosts events outside these dates. To stay up to date with the club's schedule, interested individuals can visit the club's website and check the Diary page for upcoming events.
The club is very welcoming and encourages people to try out the game of croquet. Introductory sessions are available for those interested, and all that is required is flat soled footwear. For more information, individuals can contact the club's Membership Secretary, whose contact details are provided on the website.
Spectators are also warmly welcomed to come and watch the games at Pendle and Craven Croquet Club. The club's lawns are open to anyone interested in observing the sport.
The club's address is Cemetery Road, Earby, Barnoldswick, Lancashire, with the postcode BB18 6QX. Interested individuals can also connect with Pendle and Craven Croquet Club through their social media platforms, including Twitter and Facebook. Additionally, the club is affiliated with various croquet associations such as the NW Fed Academy and The CA Dev WC Fed CWO Magazine.
Pendle and Craven Croquet Club has a rich history, dating back to its formation in 1984 by John Beech and Norman Hicks. It officially registered with the Croquet Association (CA) in 1985. The club initially played on two lawns at the Nelson and Colne College in Barrowford, but limited playing hours were imposed. However, the club's success prompted longer playing hours and the opportunity to compete against other teams.
The club joined the NWFCC and Northern Leagues in 1987 and 1988, respectively, winning league titles in its first year.
Over the years, the club expanded its facilities by opening two additional lawns at the College in 1994. Unfortunately, an arson attack on the mobile caravan clubhouse led to the construction of a grand pavilion in 1995. The club faced another relocation when the college needed the space where the pavilion was located. With careful planning and the use of heavy machinery, the pavilion and veranda were moved to a new location along the nearby river.
The club was also able to add another lawn, bringing the total to five, although it was prone to flooding during the monsoon season. However, due to the college's expansion plans, the club had to face the challenging task of yet another move and relocation.
As Pendle and Craven Croquet Club continues to thrive, it remains a place where people can come together to enjoy the fascinating game of croquet while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.