Winscombe Tennis Club have frozen their subscriptions for the coming year.

A FREEZE on membership subscriptions for the coming year to help people in today’s difficult financial climate has been decided by Winscombe Tennis Club.

Their innovative offer of a month’s free trial membership to anyone considering joining is also to be continued after a highly successful trial this year.

Chairman Peter Hucker told the annual meeting that this was possible because the past season had allowed a consolidation of funds after several years of heavy expenditure on court maintenance, new floodlights and sprucing up the clubhouse, built when the club moved home more than 20 years ago.

He said the club had enjoyed a good season with a great deal of tennis being played by all age groups, well-supported tournaments especially those organised for the North Somerset League, and an excellent and profitable social programme organised by the hard-working social committee.

But Mr Hucker added: “While we have quite a few junior members we need to recruit more and for parents to get involved and take more interest in coaching and other activities.”

Treasurer Roy Cheater, presenting the annual accounts, confirmed that lower spending on the courts and fabric during 2011 together with a slightly higher income despite a drop in interest and dividends received, meant that they had increased reserves but must not become complacent.

Men’s captain Chris Greenwood said he was encouraged that they had seen an influx of new members which boded well for the future. They had held their own in the summer league, while the winter matches were going well with a good turnout of players who were showing a positive attitude.

Retiring ladies’ captain Ruth Angelinetta reported an excellent summer season, with one of the four teams gaining promotion and the others holding their own. She is leaving the village and was loudly applauded when Mr Hucker thanked her for her many years’ service and dedication to the club.

Officers elected – chairman: Peter Hucker, who has held the post for 15 years; vice-chairman: Patricia Burgess; secretary: Jeanette Stuchbery; treasurer: Roy Cheater; men’s captain: Chris Greenwood; ladies’ captain: Katie Isgrove; membership secretary: Suzie Stockwell; executive committee: Ean Tucker, Ian Tabrett, Kevin Thorpe.