Kingslea Primary School hosted a primary schools table tennis skills festival to support the development of young beginner level players in the sport. 18 children playing in teams of two and drawn from three schools – Kingslea, Northolmes and Holbrook – took advantage of the opportunity.

Ian Ford, one of Horsham Table Tennis Club’s coaches, led the event which was delivered in four phases – basics and ball control, backhand stroke development, serving technique and a circuit of target challenges. Teams were required to record the scores they achieved in all sections but participation and progress remained the higher priorities than competitive glory in this particular venture.

The children responded to the festival with excellent behaviour, fair spirit and great enthusiasm. Hopefully a number will progress to the more competitive matchplay event next year.

Well done to all the players involved.