A NEW online booking system has been launched for Uplyme tennis court, with players no longer able to book the facilities at the village store and garage.

The trustees of the King George V playing field, which run the tennis court, have offered the facilities for free since they were allowed to reopen last month, but charges are now being reintroduced with the new booking system.

The court can be booked online at https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/UplymeVillageTennisCourt, costing £7 for an hour. A code will be issued for a padlock on the tennis court gate when booking.

Jim Thomas, one of the King George V trustees, said: "We feel this is still very good value and will help us recoup some of our lost income this year. It will also enable us to raise funds to replace part of the fencing and keep the court in good condition.

"Later in the year we intend introducing a membership option which will enable members to pay an annual fee rather than pay every time the court is booked – more details will appear on our website."

Tennis players will no longer be able to book and pick up a key at the Uplyme post office, village store and filling station – it will only be online booking and payment.

Mr Thomas added: "Our thanks go to the staff of the village store for their invaluable help in the past. We hope that those with limited use of a computer can find a friend, neighbour or family member to help should they need it.

"Please remember that the court is only to be used for tennis – no football, basketball or skateboarding on it! Enjoy your tennis and please observe the current government advice on reducing the spread of COVID-19."