A LOCAL tennis club has raised thousands for new community courts by playing the game for 24 hours straight.
Goostrey Tennis Club organised a sponsored event which saw members and friends of the club playing non-stop tennis, even through the early hours of the morning.
The surface of the club’s courts, which are more than 15 years old, has deteriorated so much that they are starting to become unusable but now, they have raised more than £6,000 towards the laying of new surfaces.
The deterioration of the current surface has significantly impacted the club and community activities, including the cancellation of social tennis, and junior tennis coaching sessions.
However, club chair Laura Gerrard says the response to their fundraising efforts show just how much the facility means to local people.
“The outpouring of support from our community has been nothing short of incredible,” she said.
“These courts aren’t just a facility for the club—they’re a vital resource for various sports teams and residents throughout Goostrey and the surrounding areas.
“The tremendous response we've received underscores just how much these facilities mean to everyone.
“We're deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to our fundraiser so far.
“The fundraising page remains open, and any additional donations would be immensely appreciated!”
The tennis-athon was a huge success, with lovely weather, high spirits and, to the club’s delight, one pair turning up in pyjamas for the 4-6am slot.
Commenting on the event, organiser Meredith Stephenson, said, “One of our tasks this year as a club has been to raise funds for the new court surface down at Goostrey Playing Fields – a much-loved community space.
“After several brainstorming sessions, I suggested we challenge ourselves to carry out a sponsored ‘24 Hours of Tennis’. A slightly ambitious idea, but everyone absolutely smashed it!
“A massive thank you to everyone who has donated, supported us, and of course those who took part!”
Donations can be made at justgiving.com/page/goostreytennisclubfundraiser
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