In this last decade of the 19th century the Priory hosted many grand matches and on these two days in 1894 W.G. raised a formidable side to take on W.W.Read's XI. Read was an iconic Priory member who captained Surrey and England and has his name on the Ashes urn.

W.G's side included Billy Murdoch, Australia's original Ashes winning captain and skipper of 4 Australian tours to England.

The whole of Reigate was decorated for the occasion and a banquet and concert held in Reigate's Public Hall during the two day match. The club have a copy of the programme from the event with numerous toasts and songs. Any Reigate residence of substance would have been invited to the banquet.

The photo shows the teams and dignitaries from the event on what is now the croquet lawn.