Tennis
MEMBERS of Barnard Castle Tennis Club were overjoyed at once again being back on the court following resurfacing work and easing of coronavirus restrictions.
The club had given the go ahead for their courts, sited in the grounds of The Bowes Museum, to be resurfaced in February and had planned to reopen in April.
Although the work was expected to take nine weeks to complete, the coronavirus lockdown meant it ground to a halt.
However, members were back on court for the first time in five months on Friday, July 31, and were delighted to try out the newly surfaced courts.
New rules have been put in place to ensure coronavirus guidelines are adhered to. Only members will be permitted to use the courts, though the club has halved fees for the remaining season.
A hand sanitizer station has been installed and members will be required to use it on entering and leaving the courts.
Net winders have been removed and the height of the nets will be checked by personnel every week.
The club’s lobster practice machine will also remain locked away for the time being as part of restrictions to reduce the spread of the virus.
Club chairman Lucy Brenkley said she was “chomping at the bit” to get back on court and was delighted to see so many attend the first club night.
Member Don Everett said during the club’s shutdown he had taken to playing at Gainford Tennis Club, where he has also signed up as a member.
He added: “It was great that we were still able to go to Gainford and was much appreciated by all who went down.
“I did become a member as that is only right, but it’s great to be back on our own courts again.”
Anyone interested in becoming a member of Barnard Castle Tennis Club can visit their website: barnardcastletennisclub.org.uk.
