Cowden Weekend - 20th/21st August 
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This feast of cricket needs no introduction. Last year had all the ingredients - last over finishes, smell of freshly cut grass, moments of high controversy, fierce competitiveness barely masked by disarming banter, steaks at the White Horse, stagediving at Jumping Jacks, archetypal cricket teas, long delays while we hunt in the hedge for the ball, me getting a 50, over-enthusiastic warm ups, feeble sledging, old men slogging Rick's bowling, mighty fry ups etc etc.
The same explosive mix is on offer this year, 20-21 August, almost. Once again, we have matches lined up against the Fountain (with the hope of extracting revenge for their Spanish practises last year) and Cowden Laeodicians (still 2-1 up in the series, despite our outlandish victory last year).
But the White Horse have let us down, with some git called Steve Moss having booked all the rooms (even the Winnie the Pooh one) on the spurious grounds of a wedding. So I've provisionially booked five rooms (two twins and three doubles - all they had) at Ye Old Crowne in Edenbridge, which seems to be the nearest thing (and don't you love the last "e"). First come, first served - let me know if you want a berth. I negotiated a discount to 69 quid a room, including breakfast. I've also booked dinner for 12 there on Saturday night.
Next best option is Travel Inn (East Grinstead): 01342 326089.
Please let me know whether you can play Saturday, Sunday or both games. Or if (like Jonny Allen last year) you'll make the trip just for the crack. Early days, but I know everyone will be getting their Summer weekends booked up early. I'll put something round nearer the time with directions, golf options etc.
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TF