New free summer tennis initiative launched in Rhymney
The programme, aimed at bringing youngsters together to promote positive communities, health, and fitness, started this week as part of the Respect Rhymney initiative.
Gwent Police's neighbourhood officers are working with sport development officers from Caerphilly County Borough Council for the scheme.
The free programme, named 'In the Right Court,' will run every Monday between 4pm and 6pm.
It aims to give young people the chance to meet neighbourhood officers, learn tennis skills, and enjoy community learning.
All tennis equipment is provided.
Inspector Lysha Thompson, leading the programme, said: "It was great to see such a fantastic turnout for the opening session, with over 30 young people – aged between three and 12 – coming down to the courts to meet officers.
"With a mix of drills, exercises and games, there was something for everyone, and it provided us with a great opportunity to meet the children and their guardians, and, as well as all the tennis on show, strike up a conversation around how we can all make Rhymney a community to be proud of."
The next session is scheduled for Monday, June 9, and will continue every Monday, weather permitting, until the end of September.
The Respect Rhymney programme is part of Gwent Police's Clear, Hold, Build initiative.
The 'Clear' phase involves targeting crime groups to prevent their operation.
This is followed by enforcement and engagement to maintain the area and prevent other organised crime groups from moving in.
The 'Build' phase focuses on fostering pride in the area and educating children and young people on the consequences of crime and antisocial behaviour.
The initiative aims to create a safer, more engaged community in Rhymney by involving young people in positive activities.
To find out more about the neighbourhood policing team's work in the area or other initiatives, people can visit the Respect Rhymney section on the Gwent Police website.
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