CORPS TOUR TO JERSEY (CHANNEL ISLANDS)

On Friday, 27th February, 1970, eleven players, three wives and an umpire, gathered together and set forth for Weymouth and a sea crossing to Jersey. Sailing just after the "bewitching hour" we had a pretty smooth crossing but on disembarking it was obvious that sleep had been fairly uneasy, due mainly to the noise of the engines. A fleet of cars, provided by members of Jersey Hockey Club and by Major Wadham (who had preceded us, by air) quickly shuttled us to our accommodation at the Continental Hotel (deserved advertisement). We freshened up and then "spent" the remainder of the morning shopping for our quota of "duty free
The first game, on Saturday afternoon, was very keenly contested with the Corps always holding the upper hand. A well taken goal by Younger early in the first half proved to be the only score but the threat of further goals kept Jersey firmly on their heels. Colbeck excelled in a well drilled defence and a last minute pre-match switch of Wadham to centre half and McGrugan to inside left gave the Corps that impetus which had been sadly lacking previously.
Saturday evening was spent celebrating the victory in the very good facilities afforded by our hotel. Early Sunday morning, conducted by two of our opponents and Maior Wadham, we all took off on an interesting tour of the Island, which was very much appreciated.
Sunday's game saw another fine display by the Corps, and Cross soon opened the account with a well taken goal from a telling through ball by Kilburn. A sudden lapse however allowed Jersey to equalise on the stroke of half time and they resumed the second half determined to take control. As time slipped away anxiety began to show, but, at last the Corps went in front again thanks to a fine penalty flick by Kilburn. Almost immediately Wadham scored, following a goal mouth scramble and the Corps ran out worthy winners by 3 goals to 1.
More celebrations followed-well into the night for some and it was a tired, but contented party that embarked homeward bound on Monday morning.
All the excitement had not finished though. A brief stop at Guernsey allowed nimble passengers the opportunity of dashing to the flower market (peace offerings? !) Two members (Warrant Officers, both), a little longer in the tooth and perhaps not so nimble, found on their return to the quayside that the ship
had sailed without them and they had to resort to air transport to get home. Never a dull moment! A Customs Officer was heard to remark that he wondered how much duty free goods they would be bringing through at Southampton Airport as he cleared their luggage at Weymouth Harbour!
On reflection, a very enjoyable trip from all aspects and especially satisfying from the hockey point of view. Thanks to all the "back-room boys" who made the trip possible and to W.O.II Kilburn for the hard work he put in, ensuring that the trip ran so smoothly.

Past & Present 2000

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