THE annual rugby match between neighbouring villages Ewshot and Crondall took place at Ewshot Rec on Boxing Day. Ewshot ran out 5-0 winners.

Proceeds from the game went to the two local churches, St Mary’s in Ewshot and All Saints in Crondall.

The many supporters from both villages enjoyed mulled wine and bacon sandwiches while the teams fought it out in a swirling wind. Played over four quarters of 20 minutes, it took until the last quarter for the deadlock to be broken.

Ewshot captain Henry Milas crashed over for the game’s only try with five minutes to go.

There were some notable performances on the pitch. Crondall skipper Charlie Badgery stood out and there was a brief but memorable cameo from Ewshot team manager and event organiser Andy ‘Sid’ Cranstone. Players and spectators will also remember the impact made by referee Jan Horrell-Tidbury who took the man-of-the-match award.

The match would not have been possible without the invaluable assistance of the two local pubs, Crondall’s Plume of Feathers and the Windmill in Ewshot, which helped provide players and promote the match. The Plume supplied the mulled wine and the Windmill opened its doors to players and spectators after the game.

The commentary of James Dickens kept the crowd entertained, while Sam and Harry Mackenzie were enthusiastic ball-boys.

The 2016 fixture will take place at Hook Meadow in Crondall, again on Boxing Day.