Prestbury to host Family Open Day
WITH better weather on the way and looking hopefully to remain settled, this weekend offers a most timely opportunity for anyone with an interest in tennis to get along to one of Cheshire’s leading clubs and experience what it has to offer.
Prestbury Tennis Club - only a 10-minute drive, or three minutes on the train, north of Macclesfield - will be holding a Family Open Day from 1-4pm on Saturday (27th), at which visitors of all ages and abilities will be welcome.
The event includes adult and junior coaching, gifts and prizes, as well, of course, as opportunities to take to the club’s eight courts - not only to play some tennis, but also to try the fast-growing racket (or, to be precise, paddle) sport of pickleball. All equipment will be provided, and, for those wishing to join the over 600-strong membership, a discount is on offer.
Situated alongside the River Bollin, and just a year off celebrating its 75th anniversary, the club has long been firmly established at the heart of the local community - not least through its active partnerships with no fewer than seven schools that offer local children the opportunity to learn and enjoy the sport.
There will invariably be stars of the future among them, with some representing Prestbury in junior county, regional or national competitions, and, in due course, turning out for the club’s adult teams - currently five apiece for men and women - which are a strong force across the Cheshire summer and winter leagues.
Juniors have always formed an important part of the club’s family - and, indeed, made up half its membership when the club first opened its doors in 1950. But whether under five, over 95 or in between, Prestbury’s tennis players get to enjoy the many benefits of belonging there - and not only the obvious physical ones that help maintain health, fitness, strength and agility, but also those giving social and psychological boosts.
The club is also fostering an environment of diversity and inclusion, with programmes to be introduced specifically for players with learning difficulties, as well as walking tennis that can be played by members with physical difficulties or in the process of rehabilitating after an illness or serious injury.
Club Chairman Mark Broadhead, looking ahead to Saturday’s event, said: “Prestbury Tennis Club is one of the best kept secrets in the area. We want to change that, and welcome anyone who wants to come down and have a go regardless of age or ability.
“I really believe we have some of the best courts, coaches and overall facilities around here. It’s a great vibe, a community club, inclusive and open to all.
“People build real friendships here, and the benefits for physical and mental wellbeing are obvious. We look forward to greeting new friends through our gates for the Open Day.”