Irvinestown Lawn Tennis Club members were delighted to get back out to play on Thursday May 28 following the decision by Fermanagh Omagh District Council to reopen the courts at the Bawnacre Centre.

The facility had been closed since March 15 in response to efforts to contain the Covid-19 pandemic and club members had been eagerly awaiting the easing of restrictions announcement from the N.I. Executive, which could pave the way to safely resuming their sport.

Tennis Ireland had issued a comprehensive Practical Guide for clubs returning to play and Bawnacre staff adhering to those guidelines as well as their own codes of practice, worked hard to put all the recommendations in place ensuring that social distancing protocols were in place and safety would remain as a priority. Players were advised of how to book a slot on court through Bawnacre and were soon happily renewing both contact with their fellow club members and their tennis strokes.

The wonderful weather we have all been enjoying has been a real bonus and the courts have come alive again with the satisfying sound of a ball being whacked, mixed with the laughter and craic that has always been such a feature of the club. For anyone wishing to become a member of ILTC, check the Facebook page.