History & Facilities
History
Elham tennis courts first opened in September 1987 and have since been managed by the Elham Sports Club Committee, which operates as part of the Elham Village Hall.
Over the years, the club has expanded its facilities to cater for a variety of sports and activities within the local community.
⚽Mike Ridley Court
Court 1 was renamed in honour of our past chairman, Mike Ridley. The surface was specially laid for playing tennis and is not as resiliant as the multisport court.
⚽🏀 Multi-Sport Courts
Court 2 was specially adapted to accommodate both 5-a-side football and basketball, enhancing the versatility of the club’s offerings and ensuring that members have access to a range of sporting options.
Village Hall
History of Elham Village Hall
On 17 March 1999, Elham celebrated the opening of its new village hall, bringing to a close more than seven years of planning, fundraising and community effort. The new building replaced the former hall, a 60-year-old structure originally created from two Army huts.
Funding and Community Support
The project was made possible through a wide range of support. Major funding came from the Millennium Commission, alongside contributions from Kent County Council, Shepway District Council, the Elham Community Trust, Elham Parish Council, the Tory Foundation, and many generous donations from local residents.
The Village Hall Committee
The members of the Village Hall Committee played a vital role throughout the project. Their work included helping to design and plan the new building, as well as organising numerous fundraising events.
Special tribute should be paid to Margaret Beeching, the late Michael Sheldon and Mike Ridley, each of whom chaired the committee during this important period.
The Opening Ceremony
The official opening day was blessed with fine weather and attracted a large gathering of villagers and invited guests. A particularly memorable moment came when the late Mrs Harrowing, a founder member of the original village hall, formally opened the new building.
Recognition and Legacy
The success of the project was later recognised nationally when John Neumark was awarded an MBE for his services to the Elham Village Hall Project.
The main hall was purpose-built to include a badminton court, reflecting the importance of sport and recreation within the community. In 2023, pickleball was introduced, broadening the range of sporting activities available to members and continuing the hall’s tradition as a centre for village life.
Activities
🧑🧑🧒 Membership & Activities
The club boasts a thriving membership with regular sessions throughout the week.
Courts & Lighting
Courts and surroundings have recently been refurbished.
Social Events
Social activities include fun tennis and picnic days.
🚻 Club Amenities
Dedicated toilets and washrooms are located within the Village Hall.
🏃 Club Ethos
The club promotes enjoyment and fitness in a safe environment.