Epsom & Ewell FC 0–3 Crowborough Athletic. 22nd August – Chalky Lane – The Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round
Epsom & Ewell bowed out of the Emirates FA Cup after a 3–0 defeat to Step 4 side Crowborough Athletic at Chalky Lane.
A crowd of 122 watched the Preliminary Round tie, for which the Salts made two changes following injuries sustained during their midweek defeat at Metropolitan Police.
In more pleasant conditions after the recent spell of hot weather, Epsom gave a good account of themselves throughout the first half.
The hosts had a strong appeal for a penalty when Courtney Swaby went down following a challenge by the Crowborough goalkeeper. The referee was unmoved and instead booked Swaby for diving.
Epsom then suffered a further setback with only around 30 seconds of the half remaining, conceding an avoidable goal to send Crowborough into the interval with a 1–0 lead.
Crowborough doubled their advantage in the 55th minute with a fine strike from the edge of the penalty area.
The visitors were subsequently awarded a penalty for handball after the ball struck an Epsom player’s arm from close range. It appeared a particularly harsh decision, given that the player had little opportunity to move out of the way.
Epsom thought they had pulled a goal back with around 10 minutes remaining, only for the effort to be ruled out for offside.
Crowborough ultimately saw out the tie to record a 3–0 victory, although the final scoreline arguably flattered the visitors after a competitive performance from the Salts.
Epsom & Ewell now turn their attention to next weekend’s away fixture against Godalming Town, while Crowborough progress to the next round of the FA Cup.
Olympic star helps launch children’s gymnastics and ninja club in Epsom
23 August 2026
Children in Epsom will have a new opportunity to try gymnastics, parkour and free running when a community sports club opens at Blenheim High School in September.
Gymfinity Kids is launching gymnastics and “ninja” classes for children aged from two to 14, with an introductory opening weekend taking place from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 September.
Olympic medallist and former Commonwealth Games champion Beth Tweddle MBE, who designed the organisation’s gymnastics programme, will support the launch by visiting schools in the Epsom area.
The new club will run one-hour sessions intended to help children develop physical skills, confidence and an enjoyment of exercise, regardless of their previous sporting experience.
Its ninja classes combine elements of parkour and free running, while the gymnastics programme introduces children to the core skills of the sport. Sessions will be led by trained coaches.
Inspiring children to get moving
Beth Tweddle said: “I’m really excited to be bringing Gymfinity Kids’ gymnastics and ninja classes to Epsom and creating more opportunities for children in the area to get active and try something new.
“Whether they’re discovering gymnastics for the first time, giving ninja a go, or simply finding a new way to move and have fun, I want every child to feel welcome and encouraged to explore what they’re capable of.
“Community clubs like this are a fantastic way to make activity more accessible to children and families, while giving children the opportunity to build confidence, learn new skills and find something they really enjoy.
“I’m looking forward to visiting schools in the area and helping inspire the next generation to get moving.”
Tweddle won bronze on the uneven bars at the London 2012 Olympic Games and was a three-time world champion. Her career also included Commonwealth Games gold medals for England.
Five community clubs in the area
The opening will bring the number of Gymfinity Kids community clubs in the wider area to five. The company also operates purpose-built centres in Bracknell and Walton-on-Thames.
Paul Kirwin, chief executive of Gymfinity Kids, said: “We’re passionate about making it easier for children to get active and discover a sport that they enjoy, which is exactly what our community clubs are designed to do.
“Our new Epsom Community Club will give children the opportunity to try something new, develop physical skills and build confidence in a fun and supportive environment.
“Whether they discover a passion for gymnastics or ninja, or simply find a new way to enjoy being active, we want every child to feel that sport is for them.”
The club will be based at Blenheim High School, Longmead Road, Epsom, KT19 9BH.
Free community football sessions and more for Epsom and Ewell
23 August 2026
Epsom & Ewell Borough Council is pleased to announce that free community football sessions will be available for young people aged 10 to 16 who live in the borough, from 24 August 2026 to 31 March 2027. This programme will be delivered by YOUfF (Young Ones United Football Foundation) with monthly life lesson mentoring sessions also available for participants.
Community football sessions will take place three days a week at Court Recreation Ground, with dedicated sessions for different age groups and genders. Spaces for up to 21 participants are available in each session and participation will need to be confirmed in advance via the YOUfF Instagram Poll. New players must complete a registration form, either online or in person at the session. For more information and details on how to book, visit this page on the YOUfF website – https://www.youff.org.uk/whatwedo
Monthly life lesson mentoring sessions will take place at St Barnabas Church in Epsom.
The Epsom & Ewell Community Football Programme supports the council’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which focuses on increasing physical activity, improving wellbeing and reducing health inequalities in the borough.
Councillor Clive Woodbridge (RA Ewell Village), Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee, said:
“The Epsom & Ewell Community Football Programme provides a fantastic opportunity for young people to take part in regular physical activity. Sessions will also provide a positive and supportive environment in which to improve their wellbeing and build their confidence.
“As well as developing football skills, participants will experience the benefits of being part of a team, building friendships, learning to be part of a team and developing a sense of belonging.
“This programme supports our commitment to improving health and wellbeing across the borough by providing free, accessible activities for young people. Alongside the football sessions, participants will also have access to mentoring and guidance to help them develop valuable life skills and make positive life choices.
“I’d like to thank YOUfF for partnering with the council to deliver this programme, and I encourage young people aged 10 to 16, and their parents and carers, to get involved and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity.”
Yasha Tobias-Browne, Founder of YOUfF CIC said: “YOUfF was created around the belief that football can be so much more than just a game. It gives us a way to bring young people together, build relationships and create opportunities both on and off the pitch. Through Epsom & Ewell Community Football, we want young people across the borough to have somewhere they can just turn up for FREE, play football, make friends and feel part of something positive. From there they can join the monthly mentoring sessions, where they’ll learn life skills, learn about qualifications and pathways that can genuinely help shape their futures. We’re really excited to be working with Epsom & Ewell Borough Council to make that happen.”
About Young Ones United Football Foundation (YOUfF)
YOUfF is a football and mentoring CiC helping young people engage in education and employment. They work alongside a number of educational organisations and reach disengaged learners using football and mentoring interventions. Football Educational Mentoring | UK | Y.O.U.F.F
About the EEBC Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2025-2028
The strategy is designed to support all residents, with particular attention given to children and young people, older adults, individuals whose health is affected by broader social and economic factors and those whose personal circumstances may disproportionately increase their vulnerability to poor health and wellbeing. The strategy also includes specific references to those who are disproportionately impacted by isolation, disability, digital exclusion and people with long-term health conditions. (Public Pack) Agenda Document for Community and Wellbeing Committee, 08/07/2025 19:30
Epsom and Ewell FC’s blessed hat-trick advances team to next round
23 August 2026
Horsham YM 1–5 Epsom & Ewell FC. 15th August – Herbert Direct Stadium – The Isuzu FA Vase First Round Qualifying
Epsom & Ewell marched into the next round of the FA Vase with an emphatic 5–1 victory away to Horsham YM.
A commanding second-half display, a hat-trick from Blessing Hombessa and standout performances across the pitch sent the Salts through in style.
Epsom & Ewell set the tone early with some sharp attacking play. Courtney Swaby came closest during the opening exchanges, striking the upright at the end of a flowing move.
Moments later, skipper Brendan Murphy-McVey appeared to have put the Salts ahead directly from a corner, only for the referee to disallow the goal for a push inside the penalty area.
The pressure finally told in the 34th minute when Swaby finished confidently to give Epsom & Ewell a deserved lead, followed by his trademark celebration.
However, just as the Salts looked set to take their advantage into the interval, a slip from Callum Wilson allowed Jack Knight to equalise for Horsham YM on the stroke of half-time.
The Salts emerged with renewed purpose and regained the lead within two minutes of the restart. Jason Bloor produced a superb solo run, weaving his way through the Horsham defence before firing past the goalkeeper to make it 2–1.
Swaby almost added another in the 65th minute, but for the second time in the match he was denied by the woodwork.
Manager Max Johnson introduced fresh legs as the game entered its closing stages. On 77 minutes, Frankie Lynn came on for his debut alongside Luke Miller and Kionte Waul, replacing Daniel Conteh, Jason Bloor and Luis Oliveira.
The changes helped the Salts maintain their momentum and, in the 81st minute, Blessing Hombessa struck to extend the lead to 3–1.
A minute later, Toby Young and Ore Allen were introduced in place of Murphy-McVey and Swaby as Epsom & Ewell continued to press.
Miller then came close to adding a fourth, beating the goalkeeper only to see his effort crash against the crossbar.
Wilson received a yellow card in the second minute of stoppage time, but the closing stages belonged to Hombessa. He struck twice more in added time, completing his hat-trick with a composed finish in the 95th minute and sealing an emphatic 5–1 victory.
A ruthless second-half performance, clinical finishing and the impact of the substitutes ensured the Salts progressed comfortably to the next round.
Epsom & Ewell will now host Bearsted on Saturday 12th September after the Kent side secured its place in the next round with a 4–1 victory over Redhill.
Epsom Racecourse: Preview and Tips for Friday’s Six-Race Meeting
23 August 2026
Racing returns to Epsom Racecourse this Friday with a six-race meeting, consisting of five handicaps and a fillies’ novice race.
Read on for a preview of and tips for the Epsom card, brought to you by BOYLE Sports, who have all the horse racing odds.
We begin with a seven-furlong nursery handicap (14.48). Oliver Cole’s Greek Symphony and Andrew Balding’s Wise And Wonderful are the only runners to have previously won a race, but the former looks more competitive on this occasion having shown he can still step up at this mark. Sequel Star could be promising on her handicap debut, and might appreciate the step up in trip as well, but she is totally unproven on a testing track like Epsom.
Next is a seven-furlong two-year-old fillies’ novice (15.23). Tiora Time is the only previous winner in the field, having won nicely last time out at Doncaster, and she carries a four-pound penalty here. Tansy Lane has been going quite well in maidens so far and may stand a decent chance here, and she looks to be the only to throw Tiora Time a question.
Race three is a six-furlong handicap (16.00). Modern Times won last time out and has had a modest rise in the weights as a result. He could factor again, but others make appeal too. Ruby’s Profit is down to an attractive mark now and is well drawn, while Sir Garfield is a consistent sort who went well at Goodwood latterly and should run a big race here under Jason Hart.
A 10-furlong handicap follows (16.38). All About George went well last time at Bath on this mark, while Celtic Spirit has been consistently good this term and enjoyed the step back up in trip last time at Lingfield. Haveagobeau beat him that day but looks to be on too tough a mark to win this time.
Second to last is an extended mile handicap (17.13). Sir Mark Prescott’s Chantelle is shaping up as a consistently good filly who gets a result more often than not. She has won two of her four career starts and has shown to handle this track. She is lightly raced this season and ought to be able to win this now, if progressing from a second over course and distance last time. Trio was the one to beat her last time, though, and may throw another question.
Last of all is a seven-furlong handicap (17.48). Ice Cube and Eyes Front both won their latest starts, with both looking competitive once again. A La Noche makes his handicap debut and returns to the track for the first time in nearly three years, so he is worth watching but unlikely to win here. Freddie’s Star might go well in first-time blinkers. Red Mirage is more consistent, though, and coil prevail here.
Epsom selections – Friday:
14.48 – Greek Symphony
15.23 – Tansy Lane
16.00 – Sir Garfield
16.38 – Celtic Spirit
17.13 – Chantelle
17.48 – Red Mirage
Image: Horses racing Image: Credit Paul. CC BY 2.0
Chips down and Epsom up
23 August 2026
Epsom and Ewell FC 1 – 0 Chipstead. 8th August – Chalky Lane – The Emirates F.A. Cup Extra Preliminary Round
A much-changed Epsom & Ewell side showed grit, discipline and real defensive character to secure a hard-earned FA Cup victory, with Jason Bloor’s first-half strike proving decisive against ten-man Chipstead.
The Salts made several changes, including the return of Dylan Marchant-Simmonds for his first game of the season and a debut for goalkeeper William Davis, who impressed throughout and kept a clean sheet. Prince Aderogba also came into the back line.
Both sides looked to attack from the outset, with former Salts player Carl Oblitey booked in the 33rd minute as the game’s physical edge began to show. The Salts continued to press for the opener, playing positive, forward-thinking football, and the breakthrough arrived on 40 minutes. A superb free-kick delivery from skipper Brendan Murphy-McVey found Jason Bloor, who applied a composed finish to put the Salts 1–0 ahead.
Just before the interval, Chipstead were reduced to ten men. Oblitey, already on a yellow card, elbowed goalkeeper William Davis, earning a second booking and his marching orders.
The Salts went into half-time with a deserved lead.
The game tightened after the restart, with a flurry of cautions. Ayran Kugathas was booked in the 52nd minute, while Jason Vincent and Brendan Murphy-McVey both received yellow cards on 60 minutes.
Manager Max Johnson then used all five substitutions:
67 mins: LJ Walker and Blessing Hombessa replaced Jason Bloor and Luke Miller.
73 mins: Ryley Merrett and Callum O’Keeffe came on for Ayran Kugathas and Ore Allen.
78 mins: Oba Akinniranye replaced Jason Vincent.
Despite sustained pressure from Chipstead, the Salts defended with courage, organisation and determination. Davis remained assured in goal, while the back line held firm to protect their slender advantage.
A disciplined and resilient performance saw the Salts safely through to the next round, where they will host Crowborough Athletic in two weeks’ time.
Virginia Water 1–2 Epsom & Ewell Saturday 4th August. Chertsey Town (Groundshare). Combined Counties Premier League
The Salts began the new season in perfect fashion, overturning a first-half deficit to claim a deserved 2–1 away victory over Virginia Water. On Chertsey Town’s immaculate surface, Epsom & Ewell produced a performance full of intensity, resilience and attacking intent.
From the opening whistle, the Salts looked sharp. Early pressure produced several blocked efforts as the Virginia Water defence scrambled to keep them at bay. Despite controlling the tempo, the visitors found themselves behind after 29 minutes when Stuart Mortimer broke through and finished clinically, punishing a momentary lapse at the back.
The response was immediate. Courtney Swaby struck the upright after excellent footwork inside the box, reminding everyone that the Salts were far from finished. More pressure followed, but the equaliser remained elusive as the sides went into the break with Virginia Water leading 1–0.
The second half saw the Salts emerge with renewed purpose. Jason Vincent had a golden one-on-one opportunity but dragged his effort wide. Managerial changes soon followed, with Oba, Luke Miller and Prince Aderogba introduced to inject fresh energy.
The breakthrough arrived through an unlikely source. Defender Stefan Aiwone surged forward and delivered a teasing ball – or was it a shot? Whatever the intention, it sailed beyond the goalkeeper and into the net to level the scores at 1–1.
Further substitutions saw Ryley Merrett and Ore Allen enter the fray, and barely two minutes later the turnaround was complete. Super-sub Luke Miller controlled the ball brilliantly inside the box before firing home a superb finish, sending the travelling supporters into celebration and putting the Salts 2–1 ahead.
The Salts then saw out the remaining minutes professionally to secure all three points. It was the perfect way to begin the season and an excellent away victory to start the campaign.
There’s more Flat action at Epsom Racecourse this Thursday with six races to get stuck into across the evening; five handicaps and a fillies’ maiden.
Read on for a preview of and tips for the Epsom card, brought to you by BOYLE Sports, who have all the horse racing odds.
First up is a mile and a half handicap for three-year-olds (18.05). Celestarak was a winner last time, while Darkest Red was only narrowly beaten. Zurna could be interesting, making his handicap debut for Julia and Shelley Birkett. Given that Darkest Red can go on any ground and looks favourably weighted here, he could be the one.
Race two is a seven-furlong two-year-old fillies’ maiden (18.40). Tiora Time and Chaise Longue are the only newcomers, but David Simcock’s Minnal brings the best form, having not been beaten too far at Doncaster on debut. Chaise Longue could be good on debut, though, forr her in-form trainer.
Race three is a seven-furlong handicap (19.15). This looks a competitive affair, with plenty of good recent form on show. Dandy Khan looks to be down to a competitive mark now for Kim Boyle, while Jersey Maverick is a course and distance winner who also should be able to win off today’s mark.
Next is a six-furlong handicap (19.50). King Of Chaos and Rage Of Thunder both won their latest starts, and both look hard pressed to reproduce that form today. Aberma Gold is a reasonably reliable sort who looks ready to go again, but Balon d’Or could be the one to beat here from a nice draw in two.
The penultimate race is an extended mile handicap (20.22). Play Me is a course and distance winner and won here last time, while Ritaal could be down to a winnable mark and has first-time blinkers to help here. Swiped is another in first-time headgear and might be worth thinking about.
We conclude with a 10-furlong three-year-olds’ handicap (20.52). The majority of the field are making their handicap debuts here, while the more experienced Sail On Sailor seeks a hat-trick. Sweep In Time is intriguing stepping up in trip for the first time here, a distance that ought to suit well. Living In Hope might be the one to cope with the undulations best, though.
Epsom selections – Thursday:
18.05 – Darkest Red
18.40 – Chaise Longue
19.15 – Dandy Khan
19.50 – Balon d’Or
20.22 – Swiped
20.52 – Living In Hope
Horses racing Image: Credit Paul. CC BY 2.0
Local runners reunite for triumphant return of the Perch 2000
23 August 2026
There was a lively atmosphere on Friday evening as the local running community gathered for the return of the Perch 2000 run.
Hosted by the Oddballs Running Club, the event returned after a hiatus, bringing together runners, supporters and volunteers for an evening of local sport on Epsom Downs.
The revival of the Perch 2000 was led by the club’s committee, with Peter Black and Mark playing key roles. Working with the Epsom & Walton Downs Conservators, the team secured the venue and dealt with the practical arrangements needed to bring the historic event back.
The organisers’ plans were then tested by soaring summer temperatures, which led to a safety-based postponement. The run was rescheduled by a week at short notice, with cooler conditions on Friday evening providing a safer setting for participants to take on the course.
Club member, local photographer and councillor Steven McCormick worked with Peter, Mark and the committee in support of the event’s return.
“It’s just fantastic to see everyone out here again,” Mr McCormick said. “The Oddballs committee put in a monumental amount of work to make this happen and to pull off the last-minute date change. Community events like this are the heartbeat of our local area.”
Mr McCormick was also on the sidelines photographing the runners. A gallery of race-day photographs is available to view and download on his website:
Nescot students restore Pat Eddery memorial bench at Epsom Downs
23 August 2026
Students from Nescot have helped restore a memorial bench dedicated to legendary jockey Pat Eddery at Epsom Downs Racecourse.
The work gave young people on Nescot’s alternative provision programme, for those aged 14 to 16, practical experience in woodworking and restoration while contributing to one of Epsom’s best-known sporting venues.
Eddery, regarded as one of the most successful jockeys in British racing history, rode more than 4,600 winners during a career spanning over three decades. He was British champion jockey 11 times and won The Derby on several occasions.
His achievements at Epsom Downs, and his long association with the Derby Festival, make the restoration of the memorial bench especially significant.
Following the project, the students were invited to Epsom Downs Racecourse to see the bench reinstated in the Parade Ring. They were also given a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic Queen Elizabeth II Stand by Julie Kapsalis MBE, Principal and CEO of Nescot and a member of the Epsom Downs Racecourse Committee.
The group visited areas not usually open to the public and followed the route taken by King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their recent Derby Festival visit, ending at the Royal Box balcony overlooking the racecourse.
Julie Kapsalis said: “Working alongside The Jockey Club on projects like this is a fantastic example of how education and industry can come together to benefit both students and the wider community.
“Our students have shown tremendous dedication in restoring this important memorial, gaining valuable practical skills while helping to preserve a piece of Epsom’s unique heritage.”
Jim Allen, General Manager at Epsom Downs Racecourse, said the restored bench was “a fitting tribute to one of racing’s greatest jockeys”.
He added: “The students have done an outstanding job. The bench looks absolutely fantastic and is a fitting tribute to one of racing’s greatest jockeys.
“We are proud to see it back in the Parade Ring, where racegoers, owners, trainers and jockeys can continue to enjoy it for many years to come.”
The bench restoration is part of a developing partnership between Nescot and The Jockey Club. Nescot students also sang on the Community Zone stage at this year’s Betfred Derby Festival and have begun work on a large-scale mural for the racecourse underpass, intended to mark the 250th running of the Derby in 2029.
The project combines practical learning with the preservation of a small but meaningful part of Epsom’s racing heritage.
Photo: Nescot students with NESCOT CEO Julie Kapsalis
Epsom Racecourse: Preview and Tips for Tonight’s Seven-Race Meeting
23 August 2026
Always a competitive track, there are seven races at Epsom this evening, with a maiden and six handicap races on the card.
Read on for a preview of and tips for the Epsom card, brought to you by BOYLE Sports, who have all the horse racing odds.
We kick off with an apprentice handicap run over 10 furlongs (17.20). Toby Moore, son of legendary jockey Ryan Moore, claims the most weight still, giving his ride – Oj Lifestyle – seven pounds. Imperial Cult, ridden by Jack Callan, seeks a hat-trick, which might be tricky on this higher new mark, while Bobacious looks likely to appreciate the better ground today. With Mason Paetel in the saddle, he looks a possibility here and has won at this track before.
Up next is a seven-furlong two-year-olds’ maiden (17.50). There are two newcomers here; Whiskey Galore and Bullrider, but this isn’t an easy track to debut at. It might, therefore, be more worthwhile to consider the chances of those with previous race experience. Shemiyla Star handled Pontefract first time out, which is promising for Epsom, while Foscarini might improve for the better ground here.
Race three is a six-furlong handicap (18.22). Four of the runners won their latest races, and have all gone up in the weights as a result. It could prove to be Goldwork’s time to shine here, on a workable mark and at a track he ought to handle.
A mile and a half handicap follows (18.57). Central Command seeks a hat-trick on a new high mark, while Alma Latina steps into handicap company for the first time having won a maiden last month. Timber Twelve might sneak into the placings on a lower mark today, and Tabasko makes some appeal too, although this might be a tough ask for a three-year-old.
The fifth race is a division of a mile and a half handicap (19.32). Pablo Prince is a consistent if rarely winning sort, who just might have an opportunity here. Lilykoy is untested on a track like this and makes her first handicap start, but her pedigree suggests propensity for these undulations.
In the second division (20.07), both Gearing’s Point and Nymphaea won their latest starts. With the former probably the most likely of the two to oblige again. Naranka looks handy after placing last time out, while Ricardo Phillips enters calculations too, but might need the run here.
Finally, racing concludes with a seven-furlong handicap (20.42). Bell Shot is on an attractive mark and has a further five pounds given by his claiming rider. Mission Command was a winner last time out but this new mark might prove to be beyond him. Musical Angel likes this track and looks more likely.
Epsom selections – Wednesday:
17.20 – Bobacious
17.50 – Shemiyla Star, Foscarini to place
18.22 – Goldwork
18.57 – Tabasko e/w
19.32 – Lilykoy
20.07 – Naranka
20.42 – Bell Shot
Horses racing Image: Credit Paul. CC BY 2.0
“Come on” all tennis players in Epsom and Ewell
23 August 2026
A borough scheme charging residents to play tennis on council courts has taken in almost double its budgeted income in its second full year, the Environment Committee – Tuesday 30th June – heard, as members confirmed that free morning tennis sessions will return across the borough’s courts this summer.
The Pay-to-Play Tennis Scheme was introduced in 2024 using a grant-funded electronic gate system from the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), the sport’s national governing body, paired with an online booking platform called Clubspark. Under the scheme, households can buy an annual membership for £40 (£20 for low-income households) covering up to five people for unlimited play, or book a court on an ad-hoc basis for £6 an hour — prices fixed at their original, introductory level through to 2026/27.
The numbers
Interim Assistant Head of Service Samantha Whitehead told the committee the scheme’s growth had exceeded expectations. Household memberships rose from 268 in 2024/25 to 316 in 2025/26, while ad-hoc bookings climbed from 1,404 to 1,868 over the same period. Net income of £31,634.62 comfortably beat a budget of £17,500. “I don’t think any of us at the outset thought it would bring back the returns that it has in a relatively short period,” she said, adding that renovation works funded through the scheme’s income at Court Recreation Ground, Alexandra Park and Auriol Park courts had already paid off: “My team report that since the recent renovations at [Auriol] Park this weekend was the most amount of bookings they’ve ever seen on the courts.”
The scheme was not without unbudgeted costs, however — £21,140.11 was spent on repainting and line-marking at Court Recreation Ground and Alexandra Park, requiring a drawdown of £7,984.46 from the council’s Repairs and Renewals Reserve, which now stands at £8,426.54.
Free summer tennis returns
Free, bookable morning tennis sessions were run for the first time during the 2025 school summer holidays and proved highly popular, generating 566 bookings across the borough’s five sites: 203 at Alexandra Park, 164 at Court Recreation Ground, 88 at Poole Road, 75 at Auriol Park and 36 at Gibraltar Recreation Ground. Officers recommended repeating the offer, running free sessions up to noon each day from 22 July to 31 August 2026.
Before debating the substance of the report, the committee formally amended the recommendation, at Cllr Liz Frost‘s (RA Woodcote and Langley) proposal, to make clear the free sessions apply to “all EEBC owned and managed” tennis courts in the borough — a clarification agreed with one abstention.
Cllr Steve McCormick (Conservative Woodcote and Langley) asked whether residents needed to register with the Clubspark booking system to access the free sessions. Ms Whitehead confirmed they did: “They do have to register with the LTA Clubspark system, which means that they could be exposed to marketing in the future if we chose to do that, but in return they get free use of the tennis courts.” Cllr Frost noted a further benefit of requiring bookings even for free sessions — it stops courts being monopolised by a single group all day, since “now people have the confidence that… they booked play, so they can go and play.”
A push to extend the hours — defeated
Cllr McCormick, noting this would be the borough’s “last summer” before local government reorganisation replaces it with a new unitary authority, argued the free window should be extended well beyond midday. “It’s incredibly popular… why not extend it?” he asked, proposing the sessions run until 2pm instead of noon, covering the same 22 July to 31 August period. “It’s only an extra couple of hours per day across that very short time frame,” he said.
Ms Whitehead’s reservation was that extending free access too far could crowd out members who had already paid for the privilege of unlimited play: “My only reservation would be for those that have paid for a membership, if they couldn’t… get access to the facilities having paid, that would be my only caveat.” Cllr Frost confirmed the committee had considered making sessions free all day the previous year, but had held back for the same reason, adding that the scheme had run smoothly in practice: officers “didn’t receive any complaints from members” unable to book a paid slot, nor “any complaints that people couldn’t play who wanted to play.” Officers were unable to confirm on the night whether last year’s free sessions were regularly fully booked, or how much the current proposal — or Cllr McCormick’s extended version — would actually cost the committee’s budget, saying the figures would need to be worked out and circulated after the meeting.
Cllr McCormick’s amendment to extend the sessions to 2pm was put to a vote and defeated, with three councillors opposed. The committee then voted, unanimously, to note the progress of the Pay to Play Tennis Scheme and to approve free morning tennis sessions on all EEBC-owned and managed courts from 22 July to 31 August 2026, in line with last year’s arrangements.
Also noted: bids for court upgrades
The report also noted that two separate Neighbourhood CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) bids — submitted by Cllrs Alex Coley (Independent Ruxley) and Clive Woodbridge (RA Ewell Village) for the regeneration of the tennis and basketball courts at Poole Road and Gibraltar Recreation Grounds — have been approved by the council’s CIL Panel and now go forward to the Strategy and Resources Committee for final sign-off. If successful, both sites would also gain pickleball facilities, a fast-growing paddle sport the report describes as offering “inclusive opportunities for participation across a wide range of ages and abilities.”
