The Chilton Pavilion Park Miners’ Welfare Recreation Ground tennis courts have reopened to offer an affordable pay-and-play community facility supported by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), writes Sue Reece.
Aligned with Durham County Council’s Move Together campaign, it features local resident discounts, coaching and holiday camps via Anthony Wilson Tennis Coaching, Sunday Activate sessions, and an upcoming LTA Big Weekend.
The Miners’ Welfare Recreation Ground was first established to support the health and wellbeing of local colliery workers and their families.
Back in 1923, as local coal production spiked, the Welfare Fund applied to transform an allotment garden into the town’s very first tennis courts.
To build the facility, local miners proudly contributed a “penny per ton” of coal directly from their hard-earned wages alongside funding from colliery owners Pease and Partners.
Opening to the public in 1924, these courts have stood as a symbol of community grit and cooperation for over a century. The latest revitalization directly builds upon this historic legacy, ensuring the space continues to serve the residents of Chilton and Windlestone.
At its core, this project is about putting the courts back where they belong: at the heart of the local community.
Tennis is often perceived as an exclusive sport, but this redevelopment breaks down those barriers to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to play.
By prioritizing grassroots access, the courts serve as a vibrant, social hub where people can connect, stay healthy, and take pride in a historic facility that belongs entirely to them.
The project fully supports the local Durham County Council Move Together campaign, encouraging residents of all ages to adopt a healthy, active lifestyle through regular outdoor recreation and with the backing from the LTA ensures the courts meet community standards and provide structured pathways for new players.
The courts now operate on a simple pay-and-play basis, making it easy to book slots online via the Miners’ Welfare Recreation Ground Booking Portal.
Standard court bookings are priced at an affordable £6 and residents of Chilton and Windlestone receive a half-price discount, bringing court hire down to just £3, making regular sport genuinely accessible for local families.
Professional training is provided through Anthony Wilson Tennis Coaching, offering structured group drills, individual lessons, and engaging holiday camps for juniors and adults.
Residents are encouraged to join the weekly “Activate Tennis” community sessions held every Sunday from 10am to 11am.
The Miners Welfare Recreation Ground Charity Trust is planning a special LTA Big Weekend event at the park to celebrate the relaunch and welcome newcomers to the game with free taster sessions.
It will also be an opportunity to try out some of the other club activities at the grounds including Bowls and croquet.
For further details visit www.chiltonmwrg.org.uk or book here.
Sue Reece
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
