A CROQUET club that was formally opened by James May has launched a campaign to raise £5,000 to help it complete crucial renovation works.

The Tisbury Bowls and Croquet Club was founded in 2022 and now has 28 members, some of whom travel from 30 miles away to be part of the community.

The club expects to have 40 members within the next year. It offers training sessions at least three times a week and free open days to attract new players.

May, who is best known for presenting Top Gear and The Grand Tour, was on “great form” when he attended the opening ceremony in June 2022.

Rosie and Nick of wine shop Gardner & Beedle, who have offered a wine tasting for six as part of the fundraising campaignRosie and Nick of wine shop Gardner & Beedle, who have offered a wine tasting for six as part of the fundraising campaign (Image: Jenny Morley) This fundraiser – which is already halfway to its target – will “continue the club’s expansion and support its mission to build connection, wellness and community through the game of croquet”.

Croquet club founder David Morley said: “Croquet is a sport for everyone.

“From young adults to people in their 90s, croquet offers the perfect opportunity to improve personal fitness, build self-respect, and enjoy the company of others.

“It’s a wonderful way to bring people together.”

To support the ‘Campaign for Croquet’, click HERE.

Read more: Presenter James May releases gin line after opening Wiltshire pub

The money raised in this six-week campaign will help the club “complete crucial remedial works and ensure the club's financial future”.

More than £25,000 has already been raised to renovate part of the clubhouse and secure essential equipment, but the club says more funds are needed to finish the job.

Of the £5,000 the club is aiming to raise in this campaign, £3,000 will go towards the remaining repairs and improvements.

Tisbury Delicatessen have donated a hamper to the causeTisbury Delicatessen have donated a hamper to the cause (Image: Jenny Morley)

Any surplus funds will be used to cover the club's running costs for the next six months and help the club build for the future, such as by purchasing new equipment and replacing worn infrastructure.

Locals can support the club by donating online or by purchasing goods provided by businesses, including vouchers for tea at Beatons Tearooms, wine tasting for six at Gardner & Beedle, a hamper of goodies from Tisbury Delicatesson and a guided tour for four at the National Gallery by local art historian and blue badge guide Sean Moran.

“We’ve worked so hard to get to this point, and with your help, we can secure the future of our club for years to come,” said David.

“Please support us and come along to see what we’ve accomplished — we’d love to meet you!”