One of the world’s oldest tennis clubs has launched an urgent appeal for funds to secure its future after it was put at risk amid its local authorities' financial crisis. The club, established in 1889, has been a part of the local community for over a century and is also listed as an Asset of Community Value.
Croydon Council has said it is working with the club to “grant them a long term (999 years) lease which will provide them with greater security”. But in order to do so, the club needs to raise around £90,000 to secure the lease, which will allow it to continue its operations.
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Chairman Blaise Westmaas said: “The value to the community is just immense. “It’s great for both the tennis community and the people here in Norbury as well. “We have lots of children's parties and we rent it out to a nursery during the day and it’s used as a polling station. It’s a real focal point for the community.
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“There isn’t another tennis club in the neighbourhood. It keeps people out in the open air and it’s a positive contribution to people’s physical and mental wellbeing.”. A spokesperson for Croydon Council said: "We are working with Norbury Park Lawn Tennis Club to grant them a long term (999 years) lease, which will provide them with greater security.
