PRIMARY school kids in Barnton and Comberbach got a special celebrity introduction to one of the fastest growing sports in the world.
Pupils from Comberbach Nursery and Primary School and Barnton Nursery and Primary School took part in a beginners' padel session, hosted by the Jason Manford Padel Academy, at the newly installed courts at Barnton Cricket Club.
The session was led by the padel academy’s experienced coach, with comedian Jason Manford joining in for a masterclass in the fast-paced and accessible sport.
Padel, which blends elements of tennis and squash, is one of the fastest growing sports in the world.
Jason took time to meet the year six children and join in the action at the event on Tuesday, June 15.
The session included a series of beginner drills, followed by friendly games, with Jason and the coach offering guidance and encouragement throughout.
The event, organised by executive headteacher of both schools, Greg de Souza, was a surprise treat for the children and proved to be an exciting and inspirational day.
Mr de Souza said: “It was a wonderful surprise for the year six children in both of my schools to meet Jason, and for all of them to have a padel masterclass session.
“At Weaver Trust, we are a trust of opportunity, and we are so grateful to have the opportunity for our children to use the wonderful padel courts at Barnton Cricket Club.
“A huge thanks to Gary and his team there.
“This exciting day marked not only a memorable moment for the pupils, but also a celebration of community collaboration and sporting opportunity in Northwich.”
The session was covered by BBC Northwest, with several children being interviewed, and a couple got to play a quick game against Jason and reporter, Molly Brewer, from BBC Northwest.
The new courts at Barnton Cricket Club, installed in April, are among several new padel facilities opening across Northwich.
For those interested in trying padel themselves, club's courts can be booked via the Playtomic app or website.
Barnton Cricket Club have generously offered the use of the courts to the schools free of charge, including the loan of rackets and balls, helping make the sport more accessible to local children.
Jason later praised the facilities on his Instagram, posting about how ‘amazing’ the courts are, and encouraging more people to give padel a go.
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