BARRY Community Tennis Club was delighted to win Community Venue of the year, which was awarded by The Welsh Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) earlier this year.

As a result, two founder members were equally delighted to be invited to attend a day recognising volunteers from across Britain who help make tennis happen.

Helen Sainsbury, ex-treasurer and now vice chair of the club, together with Mark Sainsbury, ‘groundsman’ and committee member were warmly welcomed in Roehampton, the HQ of British Tennis.

A buffet lunch was followed by a tour of the 22 courts, a view of the area being set up for Wimbledon qualifying matches, and a glimpse of Lloyd Glasspool in a training match.

Helen and Mark, along with volunteers of all ages from Glasgow to Cornwall, all winners in various categories were then invited to attend the monthly ‘all colleagues’ meeting which had been rearranged to coincide with our visit to Roehampton.

Two presentations from fellow volunteers really got the message across that tennis is for everyone, of any ability and that volunteers are essential to make it happen.

Mark and Helen joined the staff at a summer BBQ, and then headed home.

They were very glad they went, encouraged by the level of support they were offered, and

pleased by the way they were made to feel welcome.

There is an equally warm welcome waiting for newcomers in Romilly Park tennis courts, both players and volunteer helpers.

Have a look at our website for a timetable of what’s happening each week and get in touch. https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/BarryCommunityTennisClub or https://www.facebook.com/barrycommunitytennis/