Annan club hail £22k boost for tennis courts

Annan Seaforth Tennis Club have just been awarded the sum from the Holywood Trust to help towards the re-surfacing and upgrading of the courts.
With the courts at Seaforth Avenue currently thronging with people inspired by Wimbledon heroics, club chairwoman Theresa Woodman said: “We are delighted and want to thank the Holywood Trust and everyone for all the hard work that has gone into raising funds.
“Our groups and activities are really flourishing and there’s a need for all courts to be in use so that it can develop further.”
The club have been working hard to raise a target £47,000 for the required work at the courts, but still need a further £20,000.
Communications and development officer Elaine Lamont said: “The courts have fallen into a bit of disrepair and, with a full programme of activities for people of all ages and abilities, we are desperate to get all four courts back in use.”
She added: “If there are any local businesses or individuals who would be in a position to help us raise the funds, we really want to hear from them.”
Annan Seaforth Tennis Club formed in 2013 in response to concerns about the condition and future of the courts, with vandalism which saw the pavilion set on fire.
And their efforts have proved a success story, with almost 60 young people aged between five and 16 now involved in the Sunday Coaching Programme, with some already taking part in local competitions and other developing coaching skills and qualifications.
There are also adult coaching sessions on Wednesday evenings, Tea&Tennis for the more mature adult and cardio tennis sessions for those who enjoy exercise to music and want to get fitter. Club fundraising has so far fundraised about £5000 towards the £47,000 total.
Backing its aims, Helen Turner from the Holywood Trust said: “The tennis club have achieved so much in two years, and refurbishment of the courts will mean that even more people, particularly young people, will be able to have a game of tennis — either as part of the club, or by just turning up to use the facilities when there is no club on.”
Anyone interested in supporting the club is asked to contact Theresa Woodman on 01461 201549 or email [email protected]