The GLIO Site

BURITON.

     CRICKET MATCH.—On Tuesday last a most interesting and spirited game of this manly sport was played on the rectory lawn, between the choirs of Buriton and Petersfield Churches, by the kind invitation of our esteemed rector, who also, in order to add more zest to the occasion, took part in the game himself. There was a very large number of the neighbouring gentry present, and it is rarely that we have witnessed a more charming sight than one presented in the picturesque grounds, by the cricketers in the ‟tented field,” and the gay dresses of the ladies dotted in groups over the ground, forcing a happy contrast with the surrounding foliage, the hanging woods and lovely dells—beauties which are consecrated by the memory of the great Gibbon, who, we believe, wrote part of his immortal work within a hundred yards of this lovely spot. It will be seen by the subjoined score that Buriton was victorious over their Petersfield opponents. After the stumps were drawn, a sumptuous repast was served up in the rectory grounds by the kind liberality of the rector, the rev. gentleman presiding with his eldest son, and a few of the neighbouring gentry being also present. It is needless to say that Petersfield choir were quite equal to their compeers in this department, but as there were no umpires appointed, and no score being kept, we cannot say who deserved the palm; but this we do know, that all most thoroughly enjoyed themselves. We are sorry that we cannot give the able speeches that were delivered. It is needless to say that the health of the rector, and that of Mrs. Sumner and Mr. H. Sumner were received with thunders of applause. The presence of the Buriton brass band also added considerably to the effectiveness of the occasion, and we were pleased to see the steady progress this young band is making. Subjoined is the score:—

Hampshire Chronicle — Saturday 15 August 1863

     A very spirited game of cricket was played on Tuesday, in the Buriton Rectory Ground, between the Buriton and Petersfield Church Choirs, by the kind invitation of the esteemed rector, who also attended to the creature comforts by providing a most excellent repast. There was a large number of the neighbouring gentry present to witness the match, and, although some of the players had not put in an appearance in the ‟Tented Field” for some time, there was some good play on both sides. Both Mr. and Mrs. Sumner were unremitting in their attention to their guests. After giving three or four rounds of lusty cheers for their entertainers, the members of both choirs quitted the ground, having enjoyed themselves to the full.