Worcester Park Tennis Club, a volunteer-run community hub hidden behind Worcester Park railway station, is appealing for £35,000 to resurface its worn-out courts, warning that another winter will render them unsafe. The club, which has served the local area for over 105 years, supports around 100 young tennis players but fears it cannot continue to attract new talent without urgent repairs.
Community-focused model at risk
Unlike larger commercial clubs, Worcester Park encourages parents to stay and play with their children rather than wait in cars. Coach Chris Hoskins told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “We don’t have a lot of parents pulling up outside like David Lloyd. The parents stay and play with the kids.” The club offers flexible, pay-as-you-go coaching sessions, removing financial barriers. “In other clubs you have to pay a lot of money to find out you don’t actually like tennis,” Hoskins added.
Parent Naomi Walker praised the model: “It is not this big onerous commercial enterprise. This place proves tennis is not only for privileged kids.” Member Sue Hardy noted: “Our membership is very family-friendly compared with other clubs. That keeps people here.”
Deteriorating courts pose safety risk
The two hard courts were last resurfaced around 30 years ago and are now covered with uneven patch repairs. Tree roots from beside the railway line have pushed up beneath the surface, creating dangerous bumps. “It needs resurfacing. It has already been patched more than once,” Hoskins said. He warned that patched areas become slippery when wet: “Another winter and it will not be safe for kids.”
The club has received a quote of £35,000 to fully resurface both courts, including digging a trench to prevent root regrowth. So far, a fundraising campaign launched last month has raised nearly £4,000 through a local open day, resident donations, and an online page.
Junior programme a success story
The club’s junior programme is its pride, with weekly sessions and popular summer camps. Twelve-year-old Chloe Fourie, who joined at age 10, said: “I have learnt a lot playing here. Chris makes it fun.” Two young players are now competing in the Play Your Way to Wimbledon tournament. Hoskins is passionate about keeping girls in the sport, noting: “Girls sometimes drop away from the sport, which is such a shame.”
Parent Assiya Farrell and Naomi Walker both highlighted the club’s positive impact on their children. Naomi said: “The club has transformed my weekend, it’s like I have a different child now.” Committee member Carol Rhia emphasized: “When you go to Wimbledon it is great, but this is proper grassroots tennis. Where it all starts.” Hoskins added: “Champions always start out somewhere, often in a smaller club like this. We must not forget that.”
Historical significance and future support
Founded in 1921 by First World War veterans seeking health, friendship, and community, the club is part of the wider Worcester Park Athletic Club. It has received vocal support from local MPs and Sutton councillors and is seeking partnerships with businesses and tennis organisations, as well as grant funding. Hoskins said: “It doesn't matter how much help you give. As long as we get help these courts survive. I will be happily dead and buried, and there will be still be people coming here.”
