LEDBURY Tennis Club members are looking forward to the re-opening of their courts this month, following extensive refurbishment of the playing surface.

A state-of-the-art synthetic grass ‘carpet’ surface, so called because it comes on giant rolls, has been installed on top of the old macadam courts.

The eye-catching two-tone green carpet is made in the Netherlands.

Club spokesperson Jeff Arlott said: “This major investment in our facilities, will give us a tennis court surface specifically designed to provide the highest quality and comfort for our members.

"The all-weather playing surface will provide better grip and will have more give than a traditional hard court, meaning that it will be much kinder on the body’s hip, knee and ankle joints.”

The club has largely self-funded the upgrade to the court surface, along with the recent refurbishment of the clubhouse.

They have also received much valued financial assistance from Herefordshire County Council’s small business grant and the English Sports Council Lottery Fund, designed to help local sporting organisations throughout the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

“We are really proud of our Gloucester Road club, which truly is one of Ledbury’s hidden gems,” added Arlott.

“Players of all ages and abilities, are very welcome here, whether they want to play competitively, or just enjoy the stimulating exercise which this most sociable of all outdoor sports provides.”

To celebrate the rolling out of its new court surface, the club will be holding an open morning on Saturday, September 26 from 10am until 12 noon.

“It’s free to attend, and rackets and balls will be provided," added Arlott. “So whether you’re picking up a racket for the first time, you’re a seasoned regular, or you’d simply like to return to playing tennis after a long break, please reserve your space via the events tab on the club’s website: https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/ledburytennisclub