An intriguing look at sports history is at Orleans House Gallery in Twickenham until November 6
With the Rugby World Cup returning to Twickenham this month, it's the perfect time to delve into the history of the sport. The Team Spirit exhibition at Orleans House Gallery breathes life into Twickenham's sporting past, featuring artifacts and photos gathered from sports museums and local clubs like Hampton & Richmond Borough FC, the Royal Tennis Court and Twickenham Rowing Club.
Sports from rugby to rowing are included in the exhibition, which features modern and historic gear and uniforms, as well as specific artefacts like a rugby ball from the 2003 World Cup in which England emerged victorious, the cricket ball from WG Grace's Jubilee match in 1898, and Clive Woodward's England team suit.
Items great and small are on display, from a Tudor tennis ball to the bow of a boat - the exhibition is part of Richmond's Try It festival, a programme of more than 150 events designed to catch the imagination of residents and visitors throughout the World Cup (and beyond).
Richmond Councillor Meena Bond declared that there was "something for everyone, no matter their age or sporting interest" at the Team Spirit exhibition. "Our residents are so keen on sport, fitness, and health, and the exhibitions at Orleans House Gallery are so imaginative and engaging," the Cabinet Member for Sport and Culture continued, " so this is sure to be an excellent exhibition".
Team Spirit is at Orleans House Gallery until November 8
