00:00A familiar sound could be returning to Sunderland's Parks this summer.
00:05The bounce of a tennis ball and the chatter of neighbours coming together on the court.
00:10Starting Sunday 11 May, Barnes Park will host free weekly tennis sessions, open to anyone in the community.
00:17Running from 10 in the morning until 11 every Sunday, the sessions are led by trained activators,
00:23designed for people of all ages and skill levels.
00:26No experience is necessary and there is no need to bring equipment.
00:30The sessions are part of a broader effort to bring people together in shared spaces, using sport as a way to connect.
00:37For some, it's a chance to rediscover a sport they once played.
00:41For others, it's simply an opportunity to get outside, move a little and meet people in a friendly setting.
00:47With a mix of structured activity and social time, these sessions aim to create a sense of belonging.
00:53Whether you're playing competitively or just giving tennis a try for the first time.
00:59There are two courts at the Green Flag award-winning park, Barnes Park, as well as others across Sunderland,
01:05that are available for everyone to use.
01:08All of which have been upgraded recently.
01:10The Free Tennis Programme is part of a larger national push to make sport more inclusive.
01:17While professional tennis often grabs the headlines, this initiative focuses on the grassroots,
01:23on giving everyday people the opportunity to try something new,
01:26and perhaps reclaim a piece of their local space in the process.
01:30If you want to find out more or book a place, residents can head online and search for tennis sessions at Barnes Park.
01:37But organisers say there's no pressure, just turn up, take part, and enjoy your local park in a new way.
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