Places still available on City Tennis programme

(Date of issue: Tuesday, 1 September 2009)

A new programme of Carlisle City Council tennis coaching will start next week (Monday, 7 September).

The extended programme includes a new 14-week beginners’ course for adults. Building on the success of the drop-in adults’ summer tennis coaching that started in early July, the new course will provide the opportunity to develop skills and will provide a structured coaching programme.

Coaching sessions for juniors and a ladies’ programme are also in place. They all will include professional tuition from LTA (Lawn Tennis Association) licensed coaches.

All tennis courses start week commencing Monday, 7 September and finish the week ending Saturday, 19 December. Costs vary and start at £28. Weekend and night-time sessions are available for most courses.

Cllr Ray Bloxham, Portfolio holder for Environment and Infrastructure, said:

"We’re lucky to have some great facilities at Bitts Park and our professional coaching programme provides local residents the chance to get some expert tuition at a reduced cost. The new adults’ sessions are a new addition to the programme and I’d urge anyone with an interest in developing their skills to join up soon, while places are still available."

For further information about the coaching or to book onto any of the sessions, please telephone Carlisle City Council on 01228 817581.

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 between October and March to allow tennis to be played all year round.