Worcester City Council’s summer scheme to provide free access to tennis courts has proved popular once again.
In partnership with Freedom Leisure, the Council made tennis and pickleball courts at Cripplegate Park and Gheluvelt Park available for free use during set times over five weeks - from 15 July to 12 August.
The scheme saw an impressive 97% uptake, with 320 of the 330 available court hours booked.
Councillor Jabba Riaz, Deputy Leader and Chair of Worcester City Council’s Communities Committee, said: “It has been fantastic to see so many people making the most of the free tennis courts this summer, with players of all ages getting active and enjoying time on court.
“We hope the scheme has inspired more people to pick up a racket for the first time, build their confidence, or rediscover their love of tennis.
“It’s particularly encouraging that court usage has increased compared to last year, showing just how popular the programme has become and the positive impact it is having in our communities.
“Who knows, among those taking part this summer at Cripplegate and Gheluvelt parks could be some of Worcester’s future tennis stars taking their very first steps in the sport.”
Lisa Kordas, General Manager at Freedom Leisure, said: "It was fantastic to see so many people taking part in the free tennis sessions this summer, with people of all ages making the most of the courts.
"We were delighted to see the scheme prove popular, just as it has been over the last few years, welcoming back many familiar faces while introducing plenty of new people to the sport.
"We hope the sessions have inspired even more people to keep playing, and we look forward to seeing participants back on Worcester's tennis courts soon. To book a court, visit: https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/FreedomLeisureTennis"
