Competition sign-up dates for new league

(Date of issue: Monday, 22 March 2010)

Budding tennis players who want to test out their skills against fellow competitors will soon be able to take part in a new adults’ tennis league.

The Bitts Park tennis league will start on Monday, 19 April and will provide the opportunity for all standards of players to play friendly, competitive singles games.

Anyone wanting to find out more or sign up will be able to meet the league’s organisers at Bitts Park’s courts this Saturday (27 March), between 2pm - 4pm and Wednesday, 7 April, between 6pm - 8pm.

Anyone unable to attend either of the event’s, but who would like to know more, should contact Carlisle City Council in 01228 817581 or email paulf@carlisle.gov.uk

Paul Frampton, from Carlisle City Council’s Sports & Recreation team, said:

“The league builds on the success of our adult tennis coaching programme by allowing players to compete against each other and further improve their skills. It’ll be open to all standards of players – including beginners – and will be a fun way to take part in a newly established league.”

Carlisle’s Bitts Park Tennis Courts is the first North West to be awarded a top award by the Tennis Foundation. The Carlisle City Council facilities have achieved Beacon Site Status in recognition of the improved facilities and also the City Council’s extensive tennis coaching programme.

The new tennis facility at Bitts Park was opened in January 2008 after £280,000 was spent upgrading the courts. The Carlisle City Council project was made possible after £125,000 was received from the LTA and other partnership arrangements.

The facilities are managed by Carlisle Leisure Limited on behalf of Carlisle City Council and include four new hardcourts, two of which are covered by an airdome to allow tennis to be played all year round.