The chair of Cattistock Lawn Tennis Club has been talking to the West Dorset Magazine about their “fabulous” club and the many benefits of playing tennis on grass.

Rosie Barfoot, who has served as chair for the past year, originally joined the club when knee pain meant that playing on harder surfaces became untenable.

Rosie said: “I have always enjoyed playing tennis and came to Cattistock 16 years ago having developed a wonky knee. Grass is so much more forgiving on the joints than hard courts and it has been great for me to be able to carry on playing.

“We have a gorgeous setting with lovely views, and there is something about being out in the fresh air. It’s fabulous, so quiet and relaxing, all you can hear are the birds really.

“We have two fantastic courts which are so well-maintained. Perhaps not quite Wimbledon standards but they are really good.

Playing on grass is so different to the other surfaces, particularly with the bounce and speed. It’s much more challenging in so many ways, which is why professionals and amateurs love it so much.”

Cattistock Lawn Tennis Club is located on the Maiden Newton Road and was originally formed in the 1960s on land provided by the club’s president, Shirley Preston.

Set in beautiful West Dorset countryside, the club is one of only two venues in the county which allows members of the public to play on grass.

Rosie said: “We are always open to new members and people can hire the courts by prior arrangement. We have spare racquets and balls that guests can use.

“We have over 50 playing members at Cattistock, including some promising juniors. Our youngest member is just seven and we have others in their eighties.

“There is always a perception that tennis clubs might be a bit snobby, but we are not like that at all. Everybody gets on, there are no cliques and we all muck in.

“Tennis remains one of the best forms of exercise and so suited to players of all ages and abilities. It offers a full-body workout and gives us so many health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular fitness, better bone strength, and increased coordination and concentration.

“Just as importantly, it provides a strong social element, bringing people together and offering a welcome break from day-to-day pressures.

“We are looking forward to our annual tournament on Saturday, August 15, and it’s always hard-fought and fun.
“Apart from this, we aren’t a competitive club and don’t enter into any leagues.

“Players just enjoy a game with other people, in lovely surroundings.”

The club tournament starts from 1pm and is always a lovely afternoon of fun and friendly competition.

The club arranges other dates for maintenance working parties, fund raising and social events. They are self-financing and relies on membership support to help raise funds.

Cattistock Lawn Tennis Club is always open to new members and the courts are available to hire to non-members. Find them at what3words: preparing.cherry.shuttling.

Cattistock Lawn Tennis Club is situated on the Maiden Newton road into the village between West Norden Farm and Cattistock Cricket Club.

If you have any queries, please contact club secretary, Christopher Bennett, on 07483 230925 or email chrispbenne@gmail.com. You can also follow Cattistock Lawn Tennis Club on Facebook.

Membership fees for Cattistock Lawn Tennis Club

Subscriptions for 2026/2027 are as follows:

Adult: £65 per annum
17 to 21yrs: £20 per annum.
Child: £15 per annum, children under 16 must be supervised by an adult.
Family membership: 2 adults plus 2 children under 16: £130.
Single parent plus 2 children under 16 : £65.
Member’s guests: £5 per person per session, limited to a maximum of 3 times. Guests must be accompanied by a member.
Visitors: £10/person per session.