The First Annual Bat and Trap

Inter Lodge Competition.

Success at the Bat and Trap

The Kentish pub game of Bat and Trap had its inaugural event on Saturday 22nd July. Held in the picturesque setting of Mersham, Nr Ashford, deep in the heart of the Garden of England, members from around East Kent, along with family and friends, gathered in anticipation for what turned out to be a fantastic day of fun, laughter and the usual English weather.

players getting ready to play the game of bat and trap

one of the competitors taking their shot.

16 teams of 6 players, readied themselves for the start of the event, with family and friends giving the usual support and encouragement. The prize they were all playing for was the, “Duncan Rouse East Kent Masonic Bat and Trap Trophy”, not an easy thing to say!

A young girl takes her turn and produces a fine shot.

Another competitor takes aim at the ball, where di that go!

Still, with the crowd and competitors totalling over 160, the games begun. Bats and Traps were readied, Chief Umpire Kevin Kemp kept a strict eye on proceedings, whilst Jason Kemp kept score. The excitement could be cut with a knife.

A young lad takes aim and hits the ball with vigour

The ball is out of the Trap, he swings! What a shot!

With everyone soon getting the hang of things, the scores rolled in. With a few characters from around the Province enjoying the day to the full.

For most of the day, the proceedings went on without the usual English summer weather interrupting, but in usual fashion, the last game of the day fell fail to heavy rain.

This did not deter the contestants who carried on bravely in the wet.

Soon the day had to come to an end.

And so to announcing the winners, there were no loosers, Not today.

First Prize went to Martello Lodge No 8712 Team members were: Paul Akast, David Mowl, Danny Hughes, Malcolm Smithers, Antony Clifford and Andrew Stevens.

Runners up were Lodge of St. George No. 7389 Team members were: Bill Watson, Phil Hindle, Malcolm Carswell, Clive Hallet, Paul Goswell, and John Banks.

Third Place went to Norman Lodge No. 3502 Team members were: Vince Howell, Trevor Youens, Carol Youens, Kevin Brett, Andrew Mcrow, and Hazel Mcrow. Thanks go to the Provincial Grand Charity Steward, Peter Rhodes, who presented the Trophy and medals to the winning teams.

Special thanks go to the helpers on the bar, BBQ and tea & coffee. Umpires: John Hockley the Landlord and a special mention to Kevin Kemp for supplying the Traps and Jason Kemp for keeping score.

We mustn’t forget our host John Hockley and the organisers, Richard Dixey, Peter Herbert and Bob Hadlow. Well done all.