IT has been an excellent year for Okehampton Table Tennis Club and now club chairman Fred Phillips is looking for new members to join them for what promises to be another active year in 2011.

Fred is inviting new members to enjoy the excellent facilities at the club in Castle Road Okehampton.

'If you want to get fit, stay fit and improve your table tennis, you are welcome to join us at our friendly club,' said Fred.

'We have five part-time coaches and one full time professional coach, who coach in many local schools in the Okehampton and Tavistock area. We have 12 tables we can use so you can always get a game.

'Most county matches and qualifying matches are played at our club and we are hoping at the 2012 Olympic Games in London to have a national team practicing here in Okehampton too.'

'The club is most probably one of the best in the country and we cater for all types of players and ages. This can be just the players that like to play for fun right through to the Bristol League and Veterans players.

'We have group coaching sessions for adults and children or we can do 1 to 1 sessions.

'We can offer a package to suit your needs, or if you just want a little guidance we also offer this, as many of our coaches will always be on hand to help.

'Family groups are encouraged to come along and play and we have several sessions a week for the over 50s. Most weekends there are major tournaments on, so come along and have a look. They can range from local league play right up to British League standard.

'In school holidays we have training and activity days for the children, which are great fun, again any standard welcome.

'The club has many juniors, three of whom have England rankings. George Haskell, who is aged 13, is ranked 107 in England in the U15s while his brother Edward, aged 11, is ranked number 34 in England in the U13s. Naomi Jackson is ranked an impressive 32 in the England U18s — a superb ranking for someone who is just aged 15.'

However the club, which has more than 70 members, appeals to all from ages 11 to members such as one lady who has just joined recently aged 80!

Okehampton Table Tennis Club have four teams from Tavistock who play in the Okehampton Table Tennis League.

As Fred said: 'Why not come along and try something new for the new year! You will be most welcome. Give me a call on 07715 143271.'