Published: 16/02/2010 08:08 - Updated: 16/02/2010 08:10

THE Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Committee has issued a set of rules and regulations for this year’s game, which starts at 1pm on Shrove Tuesday.

 

In a statement issued this week, committee secretary Mick Betteridge said: “The last few years have seen the inception of Shrovetide Marshals who help the police, players and supporters to enjoy the old game.

“It is the wish of the committee that everyone will listen to and abide by their advice. Without the marshals the game could not take place. It is in everyone’s interest to wholeheartedly support them.

“As always the rules of the game are few and quite simple:

● No play in the churchyard, cemetery, memorial gardens or other places of worship.

● No conveying of the ball by any vehicle, No building sites to be entered, no hiding the ball so it is out of play, respect other people’s property and no dummy balls.

● Supporters, spectators and members of the public are asked to abide by the advice of police and the marshals and to park vehicles safely and away from regular areas of play.

● Parents with children must be responsible for their own safety, especially those with pushchairs.

● Finally, when a score is achieved the ball is returned to the Green Man and handed to the committee, which will ratify the score. When this is done the committee will hail the scorer and the ball will be awarded.

● The committee hopes all will enjoy the festivities and ensure our wonderful tradition is maintained.