Autumn sunlight, friendly rivalry, and the gentle clack of mallets on balls set the scene at Crackley Lane, where the Kenilworth Tennis, Squash & Croquet Club hosted its annual Fellows' Salver.

Falling poplar leaves may have kept players busy tidying the lawns, but they didn't distract from the competition.

Six members took part in a day of skill, strategy, and plenty of good-natured banter — showing that croquet is far more exciting than the old-fashioned garden game many imagine.

The final saw Philip Wood claim victory, overcoming last year's champion Nigel Pigdon with some sharp hoop running and steady nerves.

Alongside the experienced players, newcomers also shone — Jon Hodge, a recent recruit, impressed with two wins and is tipped as "one to watch" by club members.

What makes croquet special? It's a sport where tactics matter as much as technique, where newcomers can enjoy the game, playing in a relaxed, sociable atmosphere.

The club is keen to welcome new faces: "Croquet is easy to pick up, but endlessly fascinating to play," said one member. "It's competitive, but it's also a wonderful way to spend time outdoors with friends."

Interested in giving it a go? Visit www.ktscc.co.uk/croquet - to find out more and join a sport that's as much about community as competition.