Our first games were against the Arts Council and the National Trust, fey types who did not frighten the effete curators of the V&A. Most of the original pansies left and the V&A is now a virile team of mixed ability and age, with some new members under 30 who can throw over-arm. Players are lured to Stonor, our delightful home ground from which we rarely stray, by the beauty of the pitch and the valley.

We play at Stonor Park through the generosity of The Hon. William Stonor. We are also grateful to Stonor CC, and to their recently retired groundsman Tony Fisher, who maintained the pitch and outfield so beautifully.

The match fee is £200 for the visiting team (including players’ friends and family), worth it for the sight of Lord Camoys’ great house and park, the kites and the deer – if not the cricket. Facilities in the pavilion have been refurbished, including a separate Ladies lavatory with marble floor, floral bouquet and Old Master paintings.

Regular V&A players are 'invited' to pay an annual subscription, giving them preferential selection and reducing their match fee.

Captains agree the type of game to be played but as we rarely manage more then 14 overs an hour innings of 35 are customary. But whether limited overs or declaration, teams looking for fierce gladiatorial competition may be disappointed.

Teams wanting to play against us at Stoner should contact our Fixtures Secretary, as should anyone wanting to play for us; you will undoubtedly enjoy some delightful lunches and teas. Players returning from Colonial Service abroad find the view, conversation and menu reassuringly familiar.