OBITUARIES
ALAN MAYNE By Garth Aspinalll 29 MAY 1943 – 7 MAY 2026
Bowdon Croquet Club has lost one of its most influential and dedicated members with the death of Alan Mayne. Alan joined Bowdon in 2006 and quickly became involved in many aspects of club life. He later became Honorary Grounds Manager, a role he continued to hold until 2024. Although he inherited little in the way of formal guidance, he developed a deep understanding of lawn and ground management and devoted countless hours to maintaining not only the playing surfaces but also the
hedges, banks and paths that contribute so much to Bowdon's reputation as one of England's premier croquet venues.
As a player, Alan was an accomplished A-Class competitor who represented Bowdon in both regional and national team competitions and also played for Cheshire in the Inter- Counties Championship. He was respected for his practical approach to the game and his remarkable hitting-in ability. One of his favourite sayings, often repeated to fellow players, was: "If you can see it, you can hit it." However, Alan's greatest contribution may have been his commitment to widening participation in croquet. He freely shared his knowledge with players of all standards, particularly beginners and improving members, providing encouragement, coaching and advice over many years. He introduced regular One-Ball competitions at Bowdon, organised national charity One-Ball events and supported the club's annual Poppy Croquet competitions. Alan believed that a successful croquet club should serve all its members. While taking great pride in Bowdon's reputation for hosting major tournaments and championship play, he worked hard to ensure that opportunities existed for players of every handicap. Under his stewardship the club increasingly embraced year-round activity, with winter play becoming an important feature of club life. The result was not only more croquet but also a stronger and more connected membership.
His contribution extended well beyond the lawns. Whether preparing for tournaments, arranging club events or quietly ensuring that practical jobs were completed, Alan was one of those volunteers whose work often went unnoticed because it was so reliably done. Members were delighted when Kay joined the club, and together they became a familiar and much-valued part of Bowdon life. In the many tributes paid following his death, members have spoken not only of Alan's expertise and commitment but also of his generosity, friendship and willingness to help others enjoy the game he loved. Alan leaves a lasting legacy at Bowdon Croquet Club. His influence can be seen in the quality of its facilities, the strength of its community and the opportunities it provides
for players at every level. He will be greatly missed.
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