The 2010 House of Lords vs House of Commons Match was held early in the year because of the forthcoming General Election. It was, as usual, sponsored by Stephen Perry of London Export Corporation Ltd in memory of his father Jack whose name is on the match trophy. The hospitality organised at the venue, the Portland Club was up to its usual high standard.
The Lords built up an sizeable early lead and hung on to win by a comfortable margin to make the overall score 19-17 to the Lords. It is likely that whatever the result of the election the Commons are going to have to look for some new blood if they are to challenge the Lord’s in 2011.
An excellent set of hands together with commentary was produced by Paul Bowyer.
The Sir Anthony Berry Trophy for the best bid or played hand of the day went to Evan Harris MP (Liberal Democrat, Oxford West and Abingdon) for his play to make 3NT when the slightest slip in technique would have led to defeat.
In the photo (below), left to right, the winners: Lord May, Lord Skelmersdale, Baroness Billingham, Lord Baker, Baroness Henig (captain), last-minute substitute Jack Johnstone (Lady Henig’s husband), the Earl of Caithnesss and Lord Harrison.
