PORT ERIN TENNIS CLUB RECEIVES FUNDING BOOST

Tennis players in the south of the Island will soon have improved facilities to enjoy.

Manx Lottery Trust has awarded a grant of £16,000 to Port Erin Tennis Club which will see one of its much-used courts resurfaced. The club courts, regularly used by its varied membership, have been in need of repair for some time. With the support of Port Erin Commissioners, it is hoped that the work in Breagle Glen can be started in the near future.

Club officials hope the help from the Manx Lottery Trust, which has been delegated to distribute National Lottery money that has come from The National Lottery Community Fund, will see an increase in membership.

Club captain and committee member, Geoff Corke, said: ‘The kindness of Manx Lottery Trust is very much appreciated by all involved with the club. The resurfacing will not only improve the bounce of the ball as well as improve the comfort for players running on court but potentially increase the number of people wanting to participate.

‘Tennis is a social game which can be played by all ages and often a mixture of generations can be seen playing together. It is easily accessible for all and the club also loans rackets and tennis balls without charge, so we really are a club for the whole community.’

Sarah Kelly, Chairman of Manx Lottery Trust, added: ‘It is clear that this club is a focal point in Port Erin and the wider south of the Island. We hope that the junior coaching sessions, which will be restarting next year, will attract many younger players to the game and are pleased to support the dedicated team at Port Erin Tennis Club.’