Anyone for tennis? Make 2018 the year to give it a try

Cross-in-Hand Tennis Club is calling for people to pick up a racquet and give tennis a go for the first time this year. The club is also appealing for players who once played to a high standard and haven’t played for a while to dust off their racquets.

There is no waiting list and players of any age or standard are welcome to join the club which is situated next to the Heathfield and Waldron RFC on Cross in Hand Road.

The ladies’ first and second teams are particularly looking for players after losing several experienced members last year.

Second Team Captain Anne Horsfall-Turner said: “There must be a few women out there who gave up tennis for one reason or another and are thinking that they might like to play again.

Team players Chris Groom and Tony Waller

“Playing for a team is great fun. We travel to clubs across Sussex to play matches and have winter and summer leagues. We practise every Thursday evening at 7pm so anyone interested can e-mail crossinhandtennisclub@live.co.uk

“The last match of the Winter Season is on 4th February at home against Billingshurst. Feel free to come and support us.”

Club Chairman Chris Groom added: “We’re pleased to welcome members from all age groups whether they are beginners or tournament standard. All the details are displayed on our membership form including the adult, junior and family categories. We also offer a trial membership for one month with the fees refundable when you proceed to full membership.”

The membership period runs from 1st April to 31st March each year, with pro rata fees available throughout the year. The club has six floodlit tennis courts including two artificial clay and four artificial grass, as well as a special mini tennis court for rising young tennis stars. There are opportunities to play with likeminded tennis enthusiasts either through self-arrangement or organised ‘turn up and play’ day time, evening and weekend social tennis sessions. These are: Monday and Wednesday 10am to 12pm, Tuesday and Friday 6-00pm to 10pm and Sunday 2pm to 5pm.