Game, set and padel as Livingston celebrates opening of new courts
Bannatyne Health Club Livingston has officially opened three new competition-standard padel courts, celebrating the investment with a Family Fun Day that introduced members and the wider community to one of the world's fastest-growing sports.
The new courts were officially opened by former Scotland women's football manager Shelley Kerr MBE, who has been a member of the club for more than a decade, alongside Gregor Poynton, MP for the Livingston constituency, at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the club on Charlesfield Road.
Shelley, who won 59 caps for Scotland during a playing career in which she secured every major domestic honour in Scottish football, went on to manage Arsenal and lead Scotland's women's national team to its first FIFA Women's World Cup in 2019.
The three full-size doubles courts feature artificial turf playing surfaces, glass and mesh surrounds, floodlighting and canopies, allowing year-round play, and are available to both members and non-members.
The investment forms part of the Bannatyne Group's nationwide programme to introduce padel courts across its UK health club estate, reflecting the growing demand for accessible and sociable forms of exercise.
Combining elements of tennis and squash, padel has become one of the world's fastest-growing racquet sports thanks to its inclusive format. Suitable for players of all ages and abilities, it offers an enjoyable way to stay active while providing a competitive and effective cardiovascular workout.
The official opening included free padel taster sessions for adults and children, led by the club's coach Steve, an exhibition match featuring experienced players and an opportunity for more advanced players to test their skills using a Spinfire ball machine.
The Family Fun Day also featured live music from a DJ and singer, children's games and activities, a visit from local police officers, refreshments, giveaways and an ice cream van.
Duncan Bannatyne, Chairman and Chief Executive of the Bannatyne Group, said: “Padel is one of the most exciting developments in sport and fitness, and we're continuing to invest in new courts across our clubs to meet the growing demand.
“The opening of our new courts at Livingston is another important milestone in that programme. Padel is accessible, sociable and great fun, making it a perfect fit for our clubs and giving members and the wider community another opportunity to stay active and enjoy sport together.”
Trevor Jackson, General Manager of Bannatyne Health Club Livingston, said: “We're delighted to have officially opened our new padel courts and it was fantastic to see so many people getting involved during our Family Fun Day.
“Having Shelley Kerr, who is a valued, long-standing member of our club, and Gregor Poynton MP join us for the opening made the occasion particularly special. The taster sessions and exhibition match also gave visitors a great opportunity to discover what makes padel such an enjoyable sport.
“The new courts are an excellent addition to our facilities and we're looking forward to welcoming both experienced players and people trying padel for the first time.”
Shelley Kerr MBE said: “I've been a member of Bannatyne Livingston for more than ten years, so it was a real pleasure to help officially open the new padel courts.
“Throughout my career I've seen how important sport is in bringing people together and encouraging healthy, active lifestyles. It's fantastic to see the club continuing to invest in facilities that give people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to get involved.”
Gregor Poynton, MP for Livingston, said: “It was a pleasure to officially open the new padel courts at Bannatyne Livingston alongside Shelley Kerr and see families and people of all ages enjoying the activities throughout the afternoon.
“Investment in local sporting facilities is important in encouraging people to lead active, healthy lives. These new courts provide another opportunity for people across Livingston and West Lothian to get involved in sport, and it's particularly welcome that they are open to the wider community as well as club members.”
Facilities at Bannatyne Health Club Livingston include a fully equipped gym, swimming pool and an extensive programme of group exercise classes.