Leicester Croquet Club Won the Townsend Award for Clubs with 1,2 or 3 Courts

Townsend Award Sponsored by DB Mallets

Leicester Croquet Club, founded in 1985, has grown steadily during the 2022-2024 review period, increasing membership from 44 to 54 and securing a £3,600 grant from Active Together to support long-term sustainability. The club has developed a Membership Development and Action Plan from member-led ideas, produced new promotional materials, and expanded internal competitions from 4 to 9. Coaching initiatives now include Short Croquet as a pathway to Association Croquet, with teams re-entering local Federation competitions. Accessibility has been improved with new ramps and the launch of a Hoops for Health scheme in partnership with GP surgeries, offering free sessions as prescribed exercise. The club has run taster events for over 130 people, gained local radio publicity, and celebrated the success of a member ranked 8th in the European Ladies GC tournament. Alongside negotiating a longer playing season and pursuing a second lawn, these achievements highlight Leicester's commitment to growth, community engagement, and the promotion of croquet.