History

Loddiswell Playing Field is owned and operated for the community by the Loddiswell Village Hall and Playing Field Trust, a registered charity. There have been tennis courts on the Loddiswell playing field for more than forty years. The two courts were used by a tennis club for a number of years in the 1980s but their use declined in the 1990s. Between 2000 and 2015, the courts and fencing gradually fell into disrepair. The old nets remained and the courts were used for a variety of activities. In addition to tennis, these activities included launching the Loddiswell village fireworks and as a safe place for children to learn to ride bicycles.

The pavilion building, which has stood on the playing field for many years, was substantially extended and refurbished in 2000. It now provides showers and WCs for teams using the football pitch and other sports activities. Perhaps more importantly, it also provides a purpose-built home for the Loddiswell Pre-school.

In 2015, developer Bloor homes built new houses opposite the playing fields. By chance, Pat Parfitt, a tennis coach, moved into one of the homes. He noted the poor state of the courts and determined to get them refurbished. Ably supported by villager Sue Sweeney, Pat got agreement from the local council, the Playing Fields Trust and others that money generated by the new development for community projects should be used to upgrade the courts.

After many challenges, specialist contractors began the task of completely renewing the court surface and fencing in 2016. They completed the work in July 2016, delivering a fantastic new playing surface which drains freely and quickly, and is safe to use in all but the most slippery conditions. New fencing provides safety and security.

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