YORK Croquet Club are on the lookout for new members and to that end are holding a free drop-in Try Croquet afternoon this Saturday.

Anyone interested can simply turn up in flat-soled footwear at the club lawns on Scarcroft Green, Scarcroft Road, between 2.30pm and 4.30pm.

Club coaches will be on hand to show newcomers how to swing the mallet, hit the ball, run hoops and try a simple game.

The club are also running a series of introductory courses for anyone interested in learning the game.

The first starts on Monday at the club lawns at 6.30pm. There are six sessions in all, each of an hour and a half. Booking is essential. Another six-evening course starts on Tuesday, April 17.

Said club chairman John Harris: "Croquet is a game of strategy, not strength, and so people can play it on equal terms regardless of gender or age.

"It offers an absorbing mix of outdoor activity and tactical challenges.

"We are a small, friendly club and new members are always welcome.”

Each course offers a full experience of association croquet and an in-depth introduction to technique, laws and tactics. No experience is necessary and all equipment is supplied.

Courses follow the model laid down by the sport’s governing body, the Croquet Association. Each session is led by two York Croquet Club coaches accredited by the Croquet Association.

Harris said: “Croquet is an engaging game, not least on a nice summer’s day. Numbers are limited to eight per course. Anyone joining the club at the end of the course is entitled to half-price club membership for the rest of the season.”

He added: “The new season is just starting so this is an excellent time to take up croquet. York Croquet Club is expanding and we look forward to welcoming new members keen to try this engaging game.”

To book places, phone Harris on 01904 620211. Further information is at yorkcroquet.org