MEMBERS of New Earswick Tennis Club are delighted to return to the courts.

Enthusiasts at the club have made the most of restrictions easing and have been back playing regularly since March 29.

Life during the pandemic has been tough across the board, with many losing loved ones, and others their livelihoods.

For those fortunate to be working through the pandemic, it has often meant repurposing the kitchen table for office space at which to work from home.

This has also meant exercise and social interactions have been limited for many, particularly over winter.

The return of tennis for New Earswick members brings the opportunity to boost both mental and physical well-being in a naturally socially-distanced sport.

Both singles and doubles are currently being played at the club, which maintains Covid-safe practices such as players changing ends either side of the net and regular hand sanitisation.

Ant Georgiou, a member at New Earswick, commented: “The club has a great atmosphere with regular social club nights as well as seasonal club competitions all year round.

“When the lockdown was announced in March 2020, we knew it was going to be hard not playing tennis and seeing the other members.

“Fortunately, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

Another member, Theresa Roberts-Hardy, added: “Having changed my career path due to Covid-19, and now working in a social care role, getting back to tennis for me is a fantastic way to unwind in the great outdoors with friends I have missed with a sport I really love.”

Nicky Georgiou, on coming back to playing tennis says “I’ve been working in a GP surgery throughout the pandemic which has had tremendous challenges, so to be able to play tennis again is fantastic for my wellbeing.”