Cricket Club
Cricket has been played on the Artillery Garden at least since 1725. In the
18th Century the game fell into disrepute on account of the substantial wagers
it attracted, and was eventually banned. The Court finally was persuaded to allow
cricket to be played, subject to rules and restrictions, in 1846, and the game
has been seen as a useful recruiting attraction ever since.
With the decline in Saturday working after the War, and the more recent requirement
for Active Unit members to train on weekends, the Club sides have been open to
non-members in order to ensure fully-manned teams. The Active Unit have their
own Squadrons XI, which plays on weekdays to fit in with the military training
schedule. The Club sides, 1st, 2nd and A XIs, play a full fixtures list throughout
the summer, and a winter tour is usually organised. Armoury House is a popular
venue for matches, given its convenience for City-based teams, its attractive
location and high-quality grounds, and the hospitality which the Club can offer.
Potential members should contact William Lowndes, the Secretary, on 07795 602336,
or via the e-mail will.lowndes@hotmail.co.uk