THE DOWGATE CHALLENGE - 5.11.2009

This competition is now in its second year, and includes all the Livery Companies with premises in Dowgate Hill; namely, the Skinners, the Dyers, the Innholders, the Tallow Chandlers, and ourselves. The venue is the fine Surrey course of Worplesdon, just over 100 years old.

In 2008 we had struggled to raise a team, but managed to be six players this time. Part of the fun of the day is that all the players are mixed up with players from other Companies, so that you get to know Liverymen from the other Companies.

You would not expect November to be warm, but at least it did not rain. We performed reasonably as a team without actually threatening to win – better luck next time when a couple of our absentees should be back.

Alderman Alison Gowman, Alderman for Dowgate Ward, attended the lunch afterwards and presented the prizes. Liveryman Mark Savill won nearest the pin and, on the basis that one person could not win more than one prize, the Hon Secretary won with the highest points score.

James Loch made a splendid, detailed and indefatigable organiser, and we look forward to next year’s Dowgate Challenge, again at Worplesdon, on 4th November 2010.