Francis Erwood

Career

The title passed to amateur/gentleman player William Hart-Dyke in 1862 after another two-match duel, when the prize money was only £100. He was a racquet and ball maker as well as professional player and instructor to army officers in Woolwich. About 1863 Frank"s left eye was damaged whilst playing and was he obliged to end his career.

Frank"s winning racquet was for many years kept by one of his descendents, but it is now believed to reside at one of the squash clubs in Bromley, Kent.

Achievements

• The title, together with a £400 prize, was gained following two matches in 1860, the first at the Royal Artillery Court, Woolwich and the second at the Eglintoun Arms, Maudlin Street, Bristol when Erwood twice defeated open court champion professional John Charles Mitchell (1823-1861).