SUMMER is in full swing at Bishop Sutton Tennis Club. The thriving club, located in the heart of the Chew Valley, kicked off the season with its annual Open Day, which welcomes the local community to give tennis a go. 

Visitors enjoyed free taster sessions for all ages, as well as getting their hearts pumping with cardio tennis and tennis drills. Off court they chatted with the club’s friendly members over refreshments and barbeque. Several visitors joined up on the day, taking advantage of discounted membership rates.

The busy club offers its members five courts at its main club venue in Bishop Sutton – three artificial grass and two hard courts, plus a Kids’ Mini Zone. In addition, it has four hard courts at Chew Valley School that are available outside of school hours and can also be booked by non-members on a Pay and Play basis.

There are plenty of opportunities for members of all abilities to play at the club. Friendly Club Nights and free morning coaching sessions are open to all each week. Those wanting to improve their fitness can join Cardio Tennis on Thursday lunchtimes or Saturday mornings.

Competitive players can participate in Box Leagues and the club’s annual tournament, which runs all summer. It culminates with a Finals Day in September, when the winners of the Men’s, Ladies and Mixed Doubles, and Men’s and Ladies’ Singles trophies are decided. 

Members can also represent the club in Avon Tennis Summer, Late Summer and Winter League matches. This summer, the club has entered eight doubles teams in the adult leagues, four men’s and four ladies’ teams. 

Bishop Sutton’s Junior program is also thriving, with coaching from tots to teens available several days a week, plus league play year-round. A number of the club’s juniors are county players. During school holidays, the club runs Tennis Camps for all ages at its Chew Valley School courts.

The club’s new Social Committee is introducing more opportunities for members to get to know each other. There will be more social tennis for all abilities, as well as off-court activities and outings.

And finally, if you want to try something a little different, the club has introduced Pickleball at the Bishop Sutton Venue. Pickleball is one of the world’s fastest growing sports. It’s ideal for beginners as it’s easy to pick up, and suitable for all ages and abilities. The two Pickleball courts can also be booked.