Bellingham tennis club, tucked away opposite Wigan Infirmary on Wigan Lane, enjoyed its most successful season ever last year and is looking forward to more success in the coming months.
The community club, thought to be one of the oldest in the country, can trace its origins back to a grass court in the grounds of a Wigan vicarage.
The 350-strong club, which was recently nominated for club of the year in Lancashire, is certainly punching above its weight. The lady’s first team won the Warrington and District first division for the first time ever, while the most dramatic results have been served up by its junior members.
The impressive list of successes is down to an ambitious coaching programme which has been extended to schools across the borough.
This strength-in-depth is reflected in the fact that out of 18 juniors representing Wigan in the Greater Manchester Youth Games, 15 play for the Bellingham; and Wigan won Gold at U-13 and Bronze at U-15 level.
“The club’s five year plan is well on course,” according to club chairman Geoff Ashton. “We need to widen the appeal of tennis across the borough by offering coaching to local schools and make our excellent facilities more available to the community.”
The club will be looking to build on the success of last summer’s open days which attracted more than 80 new members. More open days are planned on 10 April (Good Friday) and 28 June. They are open to anyone including novices, with the club supplying rackets and balls free of charge.
“In recent years, the Bellingham has invested heavily in its new clubhouse, courts and coaching. Having such junior talent puts us in a good position for the future, and if Andy Murray can maintain his form and attract other youngsters to the game, the sky’s the limit!” says head coach Richard Watkins.
If you would like to attend one of the open days or learn more about the club go to Bellingham Lawn Tennis Club (external link) or ring Richard on 07886 083136.
