A SPORT which has become popular in America has been brought to Bournemouth, with a team playing their first ever match.

Pickleball, a combination of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is a paddle sport aimed at all ages and athletic abilities.

Last week, the Bournemouth Pickleball Club travelled to Downtown, Wiltshire to play a series of double matches against the first New Forest Pickleball Club.

After some quick, competitive games, the Bournemouth team were victorious in winning eight games to four.

Organiser Ken Lovell said: “This was our first match as a team, and we all played exceptionally well, especially the ladies who won all their games.

“Our next game is against Newport in June so we are looking forward to welcoming the team here.”

Bournemouth Pickleball Club currently practises at the Littledown on Tuesday mornings from 11am-12pm.

A free taster session is offered and paddles are provided.

Feliks Zakrzewski, one of the club’s members, said: “Pickleball is a fun sport that anyone can enjoy, from the young to the old, or for those that have had racquetball experience in the past but fancy something different.

“We are doing all we can to develop the sport in Bournemouth so if you would like to try out Pickleball, get in touch.”

To find out more, visit the club’s Facebook page - @bournemouthpickleball – or contact Ken Lovell at kenclovell@gmail.com.