Our Wimbledon Open Day got off to a flying start with a vintage exhibition match.
Doubles players with umpire on Wimbledon day
 
 
Fiona 'the demon' Dyer and Jason 'give me more' Morley battled it out with 'handy' Andy Newman and Simon 'whip crack' Crick, each brandishing a vintage wooden racket.
 
And much to everyone's surprise - and mild disappointment - local raconteur, cad, bounder and lovable rogue Montague Smythe 'The Earl of Ely' sauntered in (late) to umpire...appallingly.
 
An eventful match saw Dyer foot faulted 17 times by Smythe, resulting in a somewhat fruity court side altercation, and Crick being awarded three points for one of his deliciously devious aces.
 
At one point Smythe helped the ball over the net after a wayward return from Morley, and he was duly and deservedly reprimanded by Newman for the infraction.
 
Tea was served in a timely fashion, just as things were descending into complete chaos under the un-watchful eye of Smythe, who had decided to pick some flowers. The china cups and saucers were very appropriate, and everyone agreed that scalding hot tea was just the ticket as temperatures soared.
 
The match was played in an excellent spirit, and everyone promised that they would play again next year, unless they received a slightly better offer in the meantime.
 
After the match, other players made their way on court to try out the wooden rackets, before heading up to the Ely Outdoor Sports Association EOSA bar for well-earned refreshments served by local legends Peacocks Tearoom and Fine B&B.
 
(Photo courtesy of Emma 'the dapper snapper' Thomas)
 

 

 

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