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WCB Pétanque Team Triumph at Inter-Livery Tournament

Published on: 15 October 2025

On a lovely summer evening in July, the Worshipful Company of Butchers Pétanque team set off to the London Pétanque Club in Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens. Our Captain, Warden Steve Chick, brought the rose wine, while Past Master Margaret Boanas and Consort Tony Evans provided the boules and picnic.

The annual Inter-Livery Tournament, organised by the Worshipful Company of Distillers, epitomises fellowship. The invitation clearly states: bring a picnic and be prepared to share and enjoy the company of other Liverymen.

Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed and offered rose wine generously supplied by Maison Mirabeau, and reminded of the rules of engagement. 

The competition is now in its fourth year, and the Butchers have taken part since 2023. This year, 28 teams competed. While our team may not be the most experienced, we are all enthusiastic players who enjoy a glass of wine and the camaraderie of fellow participants we have met in previous years.

The tournament follows a knockout format. The first round involves three matches, with the first-placed team progressing to round two. The Butchers came out top of their group and advanced to the quarter-finals.

This being our first time making it through, our delight was palpable when we progressed to the semi-finals, of course celebrated with a glass or two. Reaching the finals was a huge accomplishment, and after a pep talk from our Captain, we knew the pressure was on—he was determined to win.

As the light began to fade, the tense final came to a close. Thankfully, camera torches helped illuminate the game as the Butchers emerged victorious, winning the Coopers Cask Trophy and three bottles of the Master Distiller’s choice.

Following the prize-giving, we all adjourned to a pizzeria in the park to celebrate.

If you would like to join us next year in defending our title, please contact our Captain, Steve Chick, at Steve@monarchfoods.co.uk.

It was a fantastic evening. Huge thanks to the Distillers and all participants for making it so memorable.

PM Dr Margaret Boanas

The Deputy Master