In spite of the grey skies and the cold temperatures spring has definitely sprung. And so too has enthusiasm for getting out and hitting some fuzzy yellow balls judging by recent numbers at Club play. All good to see. But the big news at ETCC is that there is a new Chairman and Treasurer. I, David Ashby, have taken over from Jan Baker - who has stepped down to vice-chair in order to continue to add her considerable expertise and support to the club. We all have many reasons to be hugely grateful to Jan for her long-standing involvement in the club and it would not be in such excellent shape were it not for her and many other people’s sustained support. Judy Nightscales has stepped in to fill the place so recently made vacant by Richard Hibbs. I am sure that she will fulfil the role of Treasurer as well as she hits a forehand drive.

At present there are no burning issues on the horizon. The club is in great shape, the tennis courts are holding up well and with a new lick of paint will go on for a few years yet. Plus we have space for a fourth if needed and somebody has been mentioning Paddle Tennis - all to be looked into. The Croquet club will soon get a new shed - courtesy a generous member - and the grass on that side of the brook looks as good as anything at SW19. Luci continues to deliver high quality coaching and is constantly updating her professional qualifications and coaching techniques. If you have anything niggling you about your game - book a session, you won’t regret it (it is also worth saying that playing with good technique is a sure-fire way to remain injury free - or at least as injury free as possible!).

Somebody recently mentioned a ball machine and lamented the lack of one at the club. STOP PRESS - the club has a ball machine! I delved into the store shed and unearthed it. I’ll read the instructions and then get it out for a trial. All going well I’ll report back and it can become a regular fixture. If you’ve never used one they can be great learning aids and really help in grooving a certain shot to perfection, or close.

Eardisley Platinum Jubilee Celebration will take place on Saturday 4th June. ETCC is involved in the following ways: free tennis and croquet is on offer and it would be good to have several members on hand to supervise racquets and balls; we will provide tea and coffee; we will set up and organise a BBQ; the club house will be open for use of the toilets. Anybody willing to help out please let us know.

There will be a Book Sale with tea, coffee and cakes at the club on Saturday 25th June between the hours of 10 - 12:30. If you have any unwanted books then please drop them off at the club house. Any further information then please contact Sarah Rickett - saljr40@gmail.com

Later in the year we will also see the return of the Quiz & Curry Night. Most likely late October. More details nearer the time.

There are WhatsApp groups for Club Play and League matches so do make sure you are on the relevant group contact list. League players are now being asked to each pay £2.50 per person towards the match balls. They can be kept if desired or donated to the club: your choice.

Most of you have renewed your membership for the 2022-23 year. Thank you, there would be no club without you. To those who have not yet renewed please can you do this as soon

as possible. The club is maintained by volunteers and it is time consuming for them to have to chase late-payers.

And lastly, I have been a member of the club for a little over 4-years and it has become very important to me. Not only do we have a beautiful club environment, especially with those majestic views of the Black Mountains, but there is a great spirit and camaraderie. Turning up to play is always a pleasure, even when a light rain is swirling around in the wind blowing up the Wye Valley. If there are things you’d like to see happening or if you have any new ideas you wish to bounce around then I’m always eager to listen.

See you on court, David