Long-established Otley Badminton Club is on the look-out for new members ahead of the 2024 / 2025 season.

Founded in 1957 by a group of players keen to see local racquet sport development, the club caters for individuals of all standards from the ages of 16 – 60 plus.

Inclusivity has always been a crucial factor in the club’s success, with an emphasis on a combination of enjoyment and competitiveness.

The badminton club’s training sessions are on Monday and Friday evenings at Prince Henry’s Grammar School, Otley, during term time. The first week’s sessions start on Monday 9 September from 7.30pm – 9.30pm and Friday 13 September from 7.00pm – 9.00pm.

The club encourages anyone who is keen to take up badminton or to join a new club to get in touch. Visitor sessions are £10 each for up to three sessions, after which the fees are deducted from full annual membership.

Though the focus is on badminton, the club is keen for individuals to join a friendly and sociable sports scene, with members regularly meeting up after matches at The Yew Tree pub across from the school.

For those with a competitive edge, the club operates five teams in the Leeds, Bradford and Harrogate leagues, including mixed doubles and individuals of varying standards.

Club shirts are available for new playing members, and the club asks new members to wear non-marking footwear when playing at the school’s sports hall.

Club member Clair Varney said: “I took up badminton at the age of 13 and I’m still enjoying the sport at 37 years later. It’s been my go-to sport wherever life has taken me.

“I first came to Otley Badminton Club over three years ago and I’ve never looked back. Otley BC is a brilliant club for competitive badminton and more social play alike. There’s always something going on with the friendly members, be it a drink after club night, the odd curry, raffle, fantasy football group or quiz.

“Many people worry they’ve been out of badminton for a while, so they don’t want to play in matches because it’s too competitive.

“They needn’t worry, as there’s a bit of everything at Otley, and whilst there’s a minimum standard to join, everyone is welcome to come along for at least three visits.

“You don’t have to be from Otley to play here – we’ve got members from as far as Bramhope, Ilkley and Holt Park, and everywhere in-between. The club would love to hear from new members, so please get in touch at info@otleybadminton.co.uk or message via Facebook.”

For more information, please visit www.otleybadminton.co.uk