Narberth squash club has opened its doors to junior players since last November.

With the help of a grant from the Sports Council of Wales’ Community Chest scheme 28 new junior members have been enlisted for Sunday morning coaching with Dave Edwards at Bloomfield House Community Centre in Narberth.

Junior coaching at the centre was introduced following the refurbishment of both squash courts at Bloomfield in August 2009. The SITA Trust as part of its Enhancing Communities Programme funded the project. Narberth Squash Club also invested some of its own funds in the project. Centre manager Janine Perkins said: “Bloomfield’s squash courts have been noticeably busier since the SITA refit and the introduction of the junior coaching will hopefully encourage more young people to enjoy all of the facilities the centre has to offer.”

The club held its first junior development tournament at Bloomfield. Squash Wales gave advice, with particular thanks to Chris Rees and Hugh Griffiths.

Despite atrocious weather 16 competitors, aged between seven and 11 took part.

The first to compete was the year three and year four category. Those taking part were Rhiannon Morgan, Cherry Platt, Esme James, Ceira Wood, Holly Gillard, Caitlin Edwards, Nathan Coaker, Jack Rees, Ethan Phillips, Joel Ordway-Phillips and Rhys Edwards.

The competition for the older year five and year six children was more severely affected by the weather however the competition was of a high standard. In the girl’s final Buffy Platt narrowly defeated Natalie Miles, whilst the boy’s event was won by Benji Gillard closely followed by Sean Coaker and Joe Haworth.

Coaching sessions take place on Sundays. Children aged seven to 11 are welcome. Contact Bloomfield House Community Centre for details on 01834 860293.