LAST Saturday (June 2), the annual “veterans’” football tournament with Dokkum (Netherlands) and Fulda (Germany) was played at Lords Meadow (home of Crediton United).

These two towns are linked to Crediton through St Boniface, who was born here, did most of his work based in Fulda, and was martyred in Dokkum.

The first game was a rumbustious affair, with Fulda running out 4-3 winners after Crediton had taken the lead. Clearly the England v Germany rivalry is alive and well, perhaps a little too much so in this instance!

In a rather more cerebral and less “fire and brimstone” encounter, Dokkum deservedly edged a 1-0 win over Fulda, setting up a decisive final game, in which Crediton had to beat the Dutch by two goals to bring the cup to England.

After an even first half, Crediton were awarded a clear penalty - in traditional English fashion the ball was blazed high over the bar, leaving the cultured Dokkum side to score twice to run out deserved winners of both this game and the cup.

This was the 14th year in succession that this tournament has been held - next year it will be Fulda’s turn to host it. Many of the original players on all sides have hung up their boots, so for many of our visitors this was their first visit to Crediton, and Devon.

They clearly enjoyed this change of scenery, and culture - not sure about the karaoke! We also put to bed the widespread notion that we never get to see the sun over here.

It was very good to see David Adams, who founded our team more than 40 years ago, watching the action - he still looks in good enough shape to help us out.

The main aim of this exchange is to foster and strengthen our links with these fellow European towns. One especially rewarding spin-off is that a local team of youngsters are now regularly playing in their own tournament in Dokkum.

Finally, thank you to the many organisations and individuals who help us host this triennial event; I won’t list you, but you know who you are.

Roll on next year: Both Fulda and Dokkum are attractive and interesting places to visit, and you’re sure of a warm welcome as long as you don’t mention my name!

Bob Edwards