Centuries-Old Ball Game Makes Joyful Comeback

Quick Smiles:

• An ancient English sport, knurr-and-spell, is returning to its birthplace after decades of silence.
• Boz Davison is leading the revival, giving old traditions a fresh start by adapting the rules and equipment.
• Interest from former champions and villagers is helping the sport thrive once more.

A remarkable resurgence is underway as knurr-and-spell, a charming ball game once loved in South Yorkshire, is played again after fading away in the 1970s. Players compete by hitting a clay ball, known as the knurr, as far as possible with a special stick, blending old-world flair with modern enthusiasm.

Boz Davison, hailing from Crane Moor near Barnsley, was inspired to revive the sport after discovering its storied past in a book. “In the series of books called Played In Britain, it was described as a ‘defunct game.’ That was like red rag to a bull.”

The game has roots reaching back to the Germanic world, as seen in its name, and even echoes similar traditions in Switzerland. While the original handcrafted wooden sticks are rare today, Davison has encouraged players to use hockey and hurling sticks, making it easier for newcomers to join in.

Davison warmly recalls, “There’s a player at Grenoside, Eric Wilson, who won the World Championship in 1969, and he’s been… and another player, Tommy Chambers, who played in the 1972 World Championships. We’ve played 4 games so far.” His relaxed approach to the rules is breathing new life into the revival.

The next match is set for Leeds, with hopes to rekindle famous Yorkshire and Lancashire rivalries. Safety remains a priority, as Davison has arranged public liability insurance, ensuring joyful matches for everyone involved.

Curious to see this heartening tradition yourself? Keep an eye out for upcoming games and feel the spirit of community it brings!

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