News Archive - Court In The Act!

Thurrock Council and its partners have served up a tasty treat for tennis-playing sportsmen and women in South Ockendon.

Thanks to funds from the Cleanaway Mardyke Trust the two courts in the South Ockendon Recreation Ground off Cliff Place, are now ready to go.

The two public courts were susceptible to flooding - even during the summer months - but thanks to a £37,000 injection of cash from the Trust, they have been raised level with the surrounding ground and should be available for action throughout the year.

The funding also provided new fencing around the courts which are used by South Ockendon Community Forum for organised matches.

Ward councillors brought the state of the courts to the attention of Thurrock Council and a successful bid for funds was made to the Trust.

At the official opening on Tuesday (26 September), Charlie Curtis, chair of the Cleanaway Mardyke Trust, said: "We have been working for and with the community of South Ockendon and the surrounding area for some years and it is always a pleasure to see what has been achieved. I am sure these tennis courts will bring pleasure to many in the years to come."

Councillor Garry Hague, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: "It's wonderful to see these tennis courts restored in this way. They look absolutely marvellous!

"I'm sure that these excellent facilities will be well used by the local community and I'd like to thank all those involved in bringing this project to fruitition, and especially the Cleanaway Mardyke Trust for their funding support."