Hampstead & Westminster Hockey Club enjoyed a memorable tour to Germany for the EuroHockey Championships in Monchengladbach recently.

In an action packed four days, club members played a total of 16 matches in the U13 to U16 age groups against leading German clubs Deutscher Sportclub Düsseldorf, Düsseldorfer SC, Düsseldorfer HC, Gladbacher HTC, Schwarz-Weiß Köln and Rot-Weiss Köln.

A total of 51 juniors from the club were flag bearers and ball patrol for seven international matches at the Championships, including England men’s triumphant semi-final win over the hosts.

They also met many hockey heroes at the stadium, including Hampstead & Westminster's own James Oates, Holly Hunt, Lily Owsley and Olivia Hamilton - who were all representing England - as well as Wales internationals Rupert Shipperley, Toby Reynolds-Cotterill, Steve Kelly, Hywel Jones and Dale Hutchinson.

Several parent coaches and chaperones also joined HWHC Vets for a friendly match against DHC on Saturday evening, followed by generous hospitality on the terrace of their clubhouse.

"The trip was an ideal pre-season adventure for the club’s junior teams to play some incredibly strong German sides, challenging themselves ahead of Tier 1 leagues this season," said a spokesperson.

"New friendships were made and several rematches were offered for future tours!"