Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott might not have too many friends in the world of politics these days - but the sport of croquet has much to thank him for.
Since notorious pictures of Prescott playing the game at his former Dorneywood official residence appeared throughout the national press, sales of croquet equipment at national supermarket Asda increased by 300 per cent.
One group of enthusiasts looking forward to a brighter future are the Southchurch Park Croquet Club.
They have moved grounds to the South East Essex College owned Wellstead Gardens, which is off Prittlewell Chase.
If you are interested in joining the Southchurch Park Croquet Club at their new premises contact Iris Freeman on 01702 347374 for more information about this friendly organisation.
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