On another exceptionally hot afternoon, yesterday 11th July, the annual Alfreton vs Swanwick fixture, playing for A38 trophy took place. It’s a traditional match between 14 pairs of Members and guests and saw a competitive but friendly rivalry between the two sides played out to see who keeps the A38 Trophy for the next 12 months.

Chris Burnham for Alfreton and Phil Walters for Swanwick, had posted their team selections earlier in the week and the match went ahead with everyone taking plenty of water on board for what was to prove tough conditions on the hot, dry fast running course.

Swanwick were the A38 trophy holders having won a close game 8-6 in 2024 and the match this year, as usual, was nip and tuck with each side winning close fought games. However, in the end, it was Alfreton who prevailed this year, for the first time since 2021, the winning score being 7.5-6.5

A few post-match drinks were taken on the patio at the end of play and in fading light Phil reluctantly presented the Trophy to Chris for safekeeping until the rematch in 2026.

A big thanks to all who organised the night and participated in the event.