IF you’ve ever fancied having a go at playing tennis, but were put off because you felt it might be a bit too frantic for the pace you had in mind, there’s now a new version of the game designed just for you.

Ledbury Tennis club is delighted to announce that they will soon be introducing regular Walking Tennis sessions on Thursday afternoons from 2.30 to 4 p.m. commencing on 23rd June.

Apart from suitable footwear such as trainers or tennis shoes, no equipment is required, although you can use your own racket if you wish. You don’t need to be a club member, or have any prior experience and the cost will be just £3 per session, on a pay as you play basis.

Walking sports are becoming really popular across the U.K. as they offer an enjoyable and gentler way to get active, which is perfect if you’re recovering from an injury or illness, or if you’re just not as sprightly as you used to be.

Played on the same court as conventional tennis, the main differences are that you mustn’t run or jump, the ball can bounce up to twice on the court before you hit it back, and a slower design of ball is used, which gives you plenty of time.

Walking Tennis offers you the opportunity to meet new, like-minded people in a friendly and inclusive setting. From the on-court banter, to catching up over a coffee afterwards, it’s social from start to finish.

Supported by the Hereford and Worcester Lawn Tennis Association, Ledbury Tennis Club is proud to be the first Herefordshire venue to offer Walking Tennis and anyone who’s curious to find out more is welcome to attend their Open Day this Saturday 18th June, where they can give it a try for free and experience all the fun of whizzing a few balls over the net.

The Open Day programme will commence at 10 a.m. when families with children under 16 are welcome to visit and try traditional tennis on court. From 11.15 a.m. adults of all abilities are similarly invited to come and have a go, chat with existing members over tea and coffee, and see the club’s lovely facilities and grounds for themselves. The day concludes with an hour dedicated to the much gentler game of Walking Tennis from 12.30 to 1.30 p.m.

Ledbury Tennis Club is truly one of the town’s hidden gems, so why not come and see what goes on behind the wall this Saturday!

Ledbury Tennis Club, Gloucester Road.

clubspark.lta.org.uk/ledburytennisclub