The Government announcement yesterday evening about a further nationwide lockdown states that all outdoor sports venues must close. New regulations come into effect on Wednesday, 6 January 2021, and are expected to apply until Monday, 15 February, at the earliest.
The croquet lawns are usually closed from January to March to avoid damage during the winter months and to allow recuperation before the start of the new season. However, after the last lockdown from 5 November to 1 December, we had thought it would be worth allowing play to continue in the new year subject to satisfactory weather conditions. In the event, December turned out to be a period of prolonged wet weather – there was rain on 29 out of 31 days – and the lawns have been unplayable for much of the time. More winter weather is in the offing so, necessary and disappointing as it is, the latest official closure will not detract too much from the situation we normally face at this time of the year.
For the latest Government and Croquet Association information and guidance see:
UK Government – National lockdown
Croquet Association – Latest Information and Advice