CAMPAIGNERS determined to keep the squash courts open at a Christchurch leisure centre have already started the ball rolling.

After winning a reprieve from local councillors last year preventing one of the courts at Two Riversmeet from becoming a meeting room and space for specialist classes, squash fans have rallied supporters into utilising the courts on a more regular basis.

A county tournament took place recently for under-15s with coach Charlie Campbell also hoping to attract more users with some new racquetball sessions.

He said: "Our racquetball sessions only started recently and already those who have joined in have loved every minute of it.

"Hopefully they will now continue to play and enjoy the benefits that participation in regular racquetball sessions can bring."

Coaching sessions will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9.30am-10.30am.

And youngsters from Christchurch primary schools also enjoyed taking part in a squash competition at the leisure centre this week.

Year four students from Christchurch Junior School, Mudeford Junior School, Highcliffe St Mark's and Somerford Primary learnt about the rules and tactics of the game before a tournament commenced in the afternoon.

Charlie added: "The event was a great success and we hope it will lead to future competitions with different year groups.

"This is all part of getting more people to take up the sport."