Playing a fun, social and stimulating sport outdoors for the past 9 months has been a wonderful release for our 40+ members. However, the lack of shelter and access to toilets is a disadvantage: the provision of basic facilities will allow more members to be able to join. We are opting for a small rustic wooden clubhouse, including a roof overhang to give outside shelter. We have included 2 toilets, one of which is full accessible for anyone who appreciates rails for support. Achieving our Crowdfunding target will enable us to reach out to people in the North Cotswolds, including youth clubs, schools and specialist disability groups. We were pleased the Town Council granted us a 50 year lease in 2020, giving permission to build a croquet club while preserving green open space.

What we'll deliver:

• Club house with toilet facilities
• Equipment storage
• Social centre

Why it's a great idea:

Croquet will provide a multitude of benefits to people in Moreton in Marsh and the North Cotswolds: The local people of all ages and backgrounds will have access to a healthy fresh air setting, meet new people, forge new friendships whilst playing a fun, challenging, game outdoors. Having toilet facilities on site will allow all including the less able and youngsters to enjoy a more relaxing time at their croquet club, socialising and exchanging experiences with others.

Steps to get it done:

• Planning permission (anticipated April 2022)
• Concrete Base laid and utilities provided (June 2022)
• Placing order for Clubhouse (June 2022)
• Delivery of Clubhouse (September 2022)
• Construction of Clubhouse (September 2022)
• Opening (October 2022)

Croquet has the capacity to improve the health and wellbeing of many in the local community, providing a pastime that is accessible to those who face physical challenges that might make other sports more difficult. The joy of social croquet can be seen on the faces of the players, the development of the club post-Covid will provide an avenue for addressing the mental health issues associated with the pandemic. We are anticipating medical centres socially prescribing croquet as a way to return to an appropriate level of fitness, physically and mentally. Tourists and visitors to Moreton in Marsh will be encouraged to add croquet to their of experiences in the Cotswolds, paying the day rate to play with members. Interestingly in 1868 the first world croquet tournament was held in Moreton in Marsh on the cricket grounds. Croquet has come home.