Inspired by Dennis Laycock and Michael Hume, Lanchester Lawn Tennis Club started Touch Tennis, and since then they have had a regular attendance of at least 10 every week, taking place at Croft View Hall. (Part of Methodist Church).
Touch Tennis is a simplified alternative to full court tennis. It is played with modified equipment and sponge balls, on a reduced court. It aims to produce longer, more intense rallies, but can be played by anyone- whether they are experienced or even if they have never picked up a racket before!
Last night's attendance included regulars; Dennis Laycock, Jane Laycock, Pam Graham, Tony McNamee, Joyce Dixon, Eddie Cooke, Fiona Mayor, Michael Hume and Holly Pendleton.
Everyone who attended had a great time and looked to be thoroughly enjoying the tennis!
Joyce Dixon said;
"It's social, great fun, keeps you fit and keeps the club going through the use of the local community facilities. Before Christmas the hall was very run down with little heat. But then it got a new lease of life with redocoration, heating and holes in the floor fixed! Pure enjoyment!!"
Fiona Mayor, who is new to tennis said;
"I met Dennis through a friend. He happened to mention that he was starting Touch Tennis and providing a taster session. I went down and met Michael and really enjoyed it. I used to play squash and badminton but am new to tennis. I really enjoy it and that's the key. They are a really sociable group and everyone is here for the same reason- to enjoy it and keep fit!"
Jane Laycock, another regular said;
"The best thing about it is, it keeps tennis going throughout the winter because there are no floodlit courts in Lanchester. It's fun but frustrating at time because it's a different tehnique to tennis. It's fast, furious and a great laugh! It keeps the club members together, we're even going out for a meal at the end of the Touch Tennis winter season!"
Touch Tennis takes place on a Tuesday night, 7.30-9.00 pm throughout the winter as a way of keeping people playing tennis and having fun.
To see Lanchester Touch Tennis in action click here.
The North East are holding a Touch Tennis Competition on SUNDAY 15th JULY at 10.30am. It is at Belle Vue Leisure Centre.
There is a £12 entry fee and the winner will receive £120!! Register for touch tennis at www.touchtennis.com and book your place in the competition by calling 01207 218151.