Tennis pros save Bishop's Meadows neglected courts

Steve Barnett and Craig Cook, who own Activate Sports Education, have restored the neglected and abandoned courts in time for a tennis filled summer.

The reopening of ten courts, both grass and hard courts has added to the growing list of activities currently on offer in Hereford's  Bishop’s Meadows, with mini golf, table tennis, and rounders and cricket socials all available in the riverside area.

The tennis experts, who have over 35 years of sport coaching between them, lead a team of coaches that aims to develop children’s tennis abilities in Herefordshire.

Boasting not only their vast experience, they have also coached players that have gone on to play in Wimbledon, or who now coach tennis pros across the globe.

Steve and Craig, who are accredited by the Lawn Tennis Association said they were “delighted” when the opportunity arose to acquire the disused courts and establish the Bishop’s Meadow as a thriving sport park.

“Tennis isn’t just about the game.

“It’s about developing vital skills like teamwork, discipline and focus – skills that    transcend the court and into everyday life.” They said.

Craig and Steve have a combined experience of over 35 years. (Image: Bee Costello-Bates)

Steve and Craig’s saving of the riverside courts means that children  in Herefordshire aged 5-15 can now take part in all-year round junior tennis coaching and holiday camps run by their company. In addition, juniors and adults can join as members of pay-as-you-go, seven days a week.

The newly refurbished courts will be open seven days a week, up until 10pm in the summer.

Their company, Activate also delivers tennis camps in association with various schemes running in the county, including the Holiday Activity and Food scheme supported by Herefordshire council and the Winter of Wellbeing initiative, run by the Hereford Household Support Fund.

“This year, Activate will teach over 1,000 children in tennis,” Craig said.

 “Our enthusiastic team has created an environment where children can learn, develop their skills and have an absolute blast on the court,” he said.