ST AUSTELL Table Tennis Club is hoping to build up its numbers once again in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The club was formed around 30 years ago when the Cornwall County Table Tennis Centre was built at Tregorrick in St Austell.
At the time, many of the smaller local clubs moved to make the new centre an established table tennis venue for St Austell.
The Cornwall County Table Tennis Centre became the hub of an active club with many social members and St Austell entered several teams in the Mid-Cornwall League, the West Cornwall League and the North Cornwall League.
The COVID-19 pandemic, which first struck the country in early 2020, and the associated lockdowns had quite an impact on the club.
A spokesperson said: “Today, although there was a significant reduction in membership during the pandemic, the club still runs two teams in the West Cornwall League Premier Division and has an increasing number of members of all ages - we currently have an active membership of approximately 25 players. We are also hoping to add two further teams in the West Cornwall League.
“We have a wide range of abilities in the club from players who have just started the sport to county level.
“Allan Brooks is our chairman and Tim Bowler our treasurer, and they carry out the day-to-day running of the club.
“We also have a qualified coach with another due to take their badge in June. We have a secretary, welfare officer and three other committee members, in addition to Allan and Tim, who help to ensure the smooth running of the club.
“It is important to highlight that we have a club constitution, a code of conduct to ensure everyone is treated fairly and with respect, and equalities, safeguarding and risk assessments in place to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all.
“St Austell Table Tennis Club is looking to help grow the sport and give individuals within our community the opportunity to give table tennis a go. We welcome all ages and levels, and we strongly believe it can be of benefit to people's health and well-being.
“We hold club nights on Fridays from 7pm to 9pm at St Austell Table Tennis Centre, St Austell Rugby Club, Tregorrick, St Austell, PL26 7AG.
“We are able to offer those who are looking to join the league, or just want to enjoy casual play, the opportunity to join our great club.
“The cost is £5 per week for adults and £2.50 per week for children, and your first week is free!”
If anyone has any questions, call Allan Brooks on 07979 367280 or visit the Facebook page m.facebook.com/groups/2566427633534354