COURTS across Oxfordshire saw their first play for seven weeks yesterday.

Tennis was among the sports permitted to return by the first easing of the coronavirus restrictions.

Strict guidelines remain in force and clubs have been working hard to ensure their facilities comply.

For the moment indoor courts remain off-limits, while the only doubles possible is if all four players are from the same household.

Where it is a singles match between players from different households, both will have to bring their own balls with which to serve.

They are discouraged at changing ends, unless the players walk round opposite sides of the net, while clubs are being asked to build gaps between sessions to minimise the amount of interaction.

Mark Wilkinson, chairman of the Oxfordshire LTA, said: “From our point of view we’re pleased to see tennis is a lucky sport because it lends itself to play in a socially distanced way.

“I’m pleased a bit of tennis is possible – everything in life is more fiddly than it was but we can adapt quickly to the new regime.

“I’m sure people will be willing to be patient.”

Oxford Sports and Wantage were among the clubs to open yesterday, which was the first day play was permitted.

North Oxford intend to restart today, having used the extra time to make sure all their preparations were in place.

They will only be taking online bookings from members for the moment.

Sarah Lacey, the club’s chairman, said: “We needed some time to get the guidelines in place.

“It’s good news. I think we will see huge demand over the next few days.”

The lockdown happened at a time when many clubs were due to take renewals for the next 12 months.

Several clubs have come up with incentives to retain their members during the lengthy closure.

North Oxford extended the period covered to 18 months, while Wantage have given members a free extension on their existing agreements.

SOME OF THE LTA’S ADVICE FOR PLAYERS RETURNING TO TENNIS

  • Where the facility allows, ensure you have booked a court in advance and pay online
  • Take the minimum amount of equipment with you that you need
  • Bring your own tennis balls that are clearly marked
  • Maximum of two people per court. Players can be from different households
  • The only exception to the above is where a group of four players are all from the same household in which case they can play doubles
  • Stay at least two metres away from other players at all times
  • Stay on your side of court and avoid changing ends, or agree to change ends at opposite sides of the net
  • Avoid using your hands to pick up tennis balls that aren’t yours
  • Be aware that onsite toilet facilities may not be open