TENNIS enthusiasts in Crewe have been back in the swing of things after the easing of restrictions for the sport.

Both Crewe Hightown Congregational Tennis Club and Wistaston Jubilee Tennis Club report their courts are being well used by members, although visitors are currently banned from playing.

Hightown has used a Government grant to waive 2020/21 subscription fees which had been set at £95 for adults and £40 for juniors to stimulate interest again when the club was permitted to reopen its gates on May 16.

Further easing of lockdown restrictions has seen the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) update their guidelines for affiliated tennis clubs and from this month members only can play doubles matches as well as singles as long as they stick to the two metres social distancing guidelines.

All other restrictions are unchanged and the updated set of guidelines for members are displayed on the pavilion.

Hightown says it has been operating a booking system with hourly slots between 10am and 8pm, but all players must bring their own balls marked with their initials.

The pavilion remains closed, but there are toilet and hand-washing facilities as well as first aid equipment. Nets are set ready for play and players are being asked to leave the court five minutes before their booking ends and also leave the grounds.

Carole Kynaston said: "There is to be no socialising and it is members only. Players must follow the LTA guidance and relevant safety notices are posted at the Club. Obviously, people with any symptoms of Covid 19 should not come down to club.

"We have received a government grant to help us through these difficult times and so the committee decided the subscription for this season was not required. Members who have already paid will be reimbursed. But they can wish to make a donation to Club funds if they want which would be welcome."

The LTA guidelines include staying on your side of the court, avoiding changing ends and steering clear of picking up tennis balls that are not your own."

Sessions at Hightown can be booked by texting Bill Kynaston on 07952 878198.

At Wistaston off-peak adult membership is only £25 and coaching is offered to members. For details contact Bill Heath on 01270 560471.

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