A SQUASH club has launched a drive to attract new members as it nears completing a £12,700 project to repair its courts.

Northallerton Squash and Racketball Club, which is based at the Northallerton Rugby Club site off Brompton Road, is inviting anyone interested in trying the sports to attend taster sessions.

The club’s chairman, Ian Hounsome, said the club had been forced to suspend a development plan to bolster membership after it became apparent earlier this year that urgent repairs were needed to the courts’ roof.

After using club funds and securing a £5,000 grant from environmental grant provider Yorventure, Mr Hounsome said the club, which has funded coaching training for two people, was hoping to attract members of a wide variety of ages.

He said: "This grant is great news for Northallerton as it will secure the future of a club that is a fantastic facility for local people."

Jeff Watson, one of the club's two qualified coaches, said racketball was the UK's fastest growing sport and is played on a squash court with a bouncier ball, making it easier to learn.

He said both sports were a good way to improve fitness, with players burning up to 800 calories per game.

Mr Watson said: "While squash and racketball are great games in their own right for beginners, playing them is also a brilliant way to improve or maintain your speed and stamina for other sports, such as rugby and football, and all in the warmth of a covered court."

The club will hold the free taster sessions on Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings later this month and in early November.

For details, visit northallertonsquashclub.com or call 07710-378-479.