Mansfield Lawn Tennis Club's gift to Mapplewells schoolchildren

Mapplewells Primary & Nursery School in Sutton in Ashfield is making good use of 150 balls that were donated to the youngsters by Mansfield Lawn Tennis Club.

Tom Darby, who is PE specialist at the school, said: “Because of coronavirus we needed to make sure children had their own equipment to avoid any risk of spreading the infection and so we came up with the idea of asking for help of local clubs. After contacting Mansfield Lawn Tennis Club we received an immediate reply.”

Club secretary Simon Ramsey said: “We ask members to put their old tennis balls in the recycle bin in the clubhouse so I knew we had the stock. Normally the club raises a small amount toward club funds by recycling them but the rest of the club’s management group agreed, reusing the balls to encourage youngsters to play sport was a much better option.”

Tom Darby said: “This community spirit is so generous and demonstrates that sports clubs, along with schools, want children to be active and to engage in as much sport as possible.

"Year 6 have been able to deliver hockey at lunchtimes through our eight sports leaders. Our year 5 have created mini games to improve their leadership skills based around racket skills, throwing and catching, as well as throwing at a target. Invaluable skills, both personal and sports based, that will last a lifetime.”

An instructor from the club will visit the school to work with children on their tennis skills.