Madam, In response to the letter describing Petanque (boules) as the sport of the "privileged few" I repeat the advice of the town clerk in last week's letter: that it helps to establish facts before airing one's views.
A set of leisure boules costs under £20, club membership £16 (no game fee) and no special footwear or clothing is required. New players can borrow boules free as a trial.
As a doctor, I have been delighted to find an activity which the physically and intellectually compromised, the aged and the frail can enjoy and find they are welcome in Ross.
Those who can no longer manage the more privileged sports of golf, tennis, rowing or bowls can cope with a game which lasts less than an hour and allows one to sit when not participating but yet permits the young and active to show their skill and energy. We even have a national petanque player in Ross.
Folk who cannot temporarily play (maybe when too ill with cancer) are collected by other members and enjoy sitting in the clubroom or sunshine watching friends and enjoying their company. There is true kindness and generosity of spirit.
Anyone interested in trying boules (including the privileged few) should phone Sarah on 01989 720735 or David on 01989 730300. The group play throughout the year on Thursday and Sunday mornings 10.30 to 12'ish and Tuesday evenings from 6.30pm.
Dr C Peacock MB ChB