State-of-the-art sports facilities have arrived in Nidderdale, with the laying of three brand-new artificial grass tennis courts at Dacre Tennis Club.
The new ‘Savanna’ playing surfaces have replaced old and worn tarmac courts at a cost of £70,000.
The sum was paid for by a combination of cash, grants and loans from various sources.
Dacre & Hartwith Playing Fields Association, which owns the Max Pullan Recreation Ground where the club is based, contributed over £8,000, the North Yorkshire County Council’s Locality Budget provided a grant of £1,000, and a sizeable donation was also made by a club member.
Other members provided 10-year loans to the club, which itself also contributed reserves built up for the purpose and sold some 10-year memberships to make up the shortfall.
Club committee member Charles Andrew said:
“It’s a big investment, but the club is a real hub for tennis in the middle and upper dale and an important facility for all the people and villages there.
“It’s a lovely surface to play on and some club members went and tested it out and were really impressed.”
Dacre Tennis Club is volunteer-run and holds frequent social tennis sessions, runs competitions, and competes in local leagues.
To introduce players to the new courts, volunteers will be opening up the club up for some free, informal Come-and-Play tennis sessions, starting from this weekend.
Club secretary Jane Robinson said:
“It’s a really exciting project and we’re hoping to attract lots of new members.”
The sessions will be held at the following times:
- Saturday, April 15, 2-5 pm
- Monday, April 17, 6-8 pm
- Wednesday, May 10, 1.30-3.30 pm
- Wednesday, May 17, 1.30-3.30 pm
- Wednesday, May 24, 1.30-3.30 pm
The club suggests people bring their trainers or tennis shoes and a racket if they have one; if they don’t, they may borrow one from the club.
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