Folkestone Tour 2005 - 14th/15th August
Arguably, alongside Lords, Folkestone vies for the title of "The Home of Cricket". For this and other reasons, the Strollers tour of Folkestone is for many akin to a pilgrimage. It was here where many Strollers first made their names as schoolboy cricketers and learnt everything they knew about the game which they subsequently forgot. Whilst few of the local boys have fulfilled their early promise, returning is filled with nostalgia - "a trip down memory lane", and for others contains all the ingredients for a wonderful weekend.
Our opponents this year as in previous years will be St.John´s Church, who I understand have been "steamrollering" other church teams in the region so far this season, possibly combined with the creme de la creme of Holy Trinity. The match is currently pencilled in for Saturday the 13th August, although due to a misunderstanding about dates, the pitch has been booked for the Sunday. I expect this to be changed but in the event it can´t be, those wishing to play should keep both afternoons free.
The venue is the army pitch in Shorncliffe Road, a pitch renowned for its unpredictability. Many a Stroller has blamed the bounce for their failures with the bat. Organizers are looking into the possibility of changing the venue to the Harvey Grammar School pitch where many Strollers had their finest hours. This would appear unlikely but any changes will be confirmed as soon as possible. Start 2pm so meet at pitch from 1. Following the success of last years theme tunes for incoming and outgoing batsmen, players are asked to bring appropriate music. "Flash, Saviour of the Universe", "Let me entertain you" and "Eye of the Tiger" were just a few of last years choices, with batsmen departing to the likes of "Tragedy".
Lest we forget, the Folkestone Tour is about so much more than just cricket. The itinerary will be based on the same tried and tested winning formula of previous years. After the match players will adjourn to the Ship Inn in Sandgate for jugs of ale and the possibility of a sea swim. Many will no doubt remember last year´s now legendary sea-pole climb and will be keen to take the opportunity to prove their masculinity once more. As Rob´s scars begin to heal he will no doubt be looking to take the honour of first up the pole, though will perhaps think twice about comedy Del Boy falls into the sea from 10ft.
After this Strollers and friends are once more invited to the garden of Chez Fletcher to enjoy a barbecue and buffet supper courtesy of Mark and Debbie Fletcher, with possible guest DJing from John Fletcher and perhaps even karaoke round the piano as the night wears on. Strollers are asked to bring booze for the occasion though all food should be provided. There should also be a couple of beds and definitely floor space here for the night, and Rick and Doug will also be able to provide some accommodation. Couples might like to try rooms at the Ship, Burlington Hotel or Wards Hotel.
Suggestions for those still around on Sunday include a morning Ryder Cup style golf tournament at the picturesque Folkestone Sports Centre course (ideal for novices such as Rick), footy in the park or more gentle sea or countryside walks.
Most players will be no strangers to Folkestone, the Fletchers´house and the pitch, but if anyone requires further directions and information contact myself lukefletcher77@yahoo.com and/or Rick rickbristow@strollerscricket.co.uk, match managers for the weekend. Let us know availability as soon as possible as there are only 11 (maybe 12) PLAYING places so competition will be fierce.
Looking forward to another glorious summer of cricket. Stroll on with hope in your heart.
Yours in cricket,
Luke
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