Free tennis lessons held in Banbury park for first time
The session ran from 10am to 11am on Saturday, May 24, at People's Park, teaching participants a variety of tips and techniques.
Following the success of this initial class, Banbury Town Council is encouraging more residents to join future lessons, which will be held every Saturday at the same time and location.
It is the first major initiative to be launched at the tennis courts since their refurbishment last summer.
The refurbished courts, located in the heart of Banbury, have become popular with residents.
Following the refurbishment, members of the public can book slots using a booking system on Banbury Town Council's website.
People taking part in the free tennis lessons in Banbury (Image: Banbury Town Council) Booking a match is as simple as selecting a free time from the online calendar on the 'book your slot' page.
Once booked, the player receives a one time code to access the courts.
If the courts are not being used and the player has internet access, they can book when they get to the courts.
The courts are available to use year-round, and the booking system ensures there is less confusion or clashing of schedules among players.
Councillor Mark Cherry, former town mayor and chairman of Banbury Town Council's General Services Committee, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone, regardless of age or experience, to take part in an exciting sport that bridges communities, backgrounds, and entire generations.
"We've seen People's Park tennis courts transformed into a wonderful venue that Banbury can be proud of, and it's great to see such programmes making the most of these first-class sports facilities."
The new sessions are part of a partnership between Banbury Town Council, the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), and experienced tennis players Shola Adebisi and Jenny Edwards, and are part of the LTA's national Free Park Tennis programme.
Jenny Edwards and Shola Adebisi (Image: Banbury Town Council) Mr Adebisi, head coach at Banbury Tennis Academy, brings a wealth of experience, with more than a decade supporting young players across the UK.
He has previously been named National Junior Champion and was crowned the 2021 LTA Oxfordshire Coach of the Year.
Ms Edwards, an LTA L2 coach PTR instructor, is also a teaching veteran, having taught tennis to people of all ages, from four-year-olds up to adults.
Her previous roles include head coach of BWE Club Adderbury and head of tennis at Bloxham School.
Ms Edwards is efficient at breaking down the different elements of becoming a good player.
To sign up for future sessions at People's Park, residents can visit the LTA website.
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