Plympton’s four outdoor tennis courts at Harewood Park have been formally re-opened in a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Plympton Tennis Club chairman Alison Miles told the assembled crowd gathered for the opening:
“It’s been a great achievement to get enough money raised to get these (top) courts resurfaced and the bottom courts painted.”
She explained that contributions had come from a variety of sources including local businesses and a significant donation from the Royal Devonport Dockyard Sports and Social Club. There had also been matched funding of £21,000 from Plymouth City Council.
Ms Miles continued:
“The strategic and planning department of the council were also very helpful in the logistics of liaising with the contractor and supporting us, so we are very appreciative of that department’s help as well.”
She then went on to introduce Stannator Pastor Arno Bessel and handed him a set of scissors to cut the ribbon. Stannator Bessel said:
“This is certainly a great achievement and let’s keep in mind that it’s not just for youngsters but it’s also open to the public which is greatly valued exercise to look after health.”
He also spoke of the importance of the courts for the youth of Plympton and encouraged the young people present to keep training before adding:
“Who knows, some of them might one day be a national champion.”
The opening ceremony also coincided with a ‘Dawn til Dusk’ fundraising event on the courts which aims to get floodlighting installed at the courts to maximise their use further. Underground infrastructure was put in place during the recent refurbishments.
Now the focus is on raising funds for the above ground aspects of the project.
(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
