Welcome to the last South West Area update of 2025. The first half of the season seems to have flown by, and it has been genuinely inspiring to see the time, energy and talent that clubs, leagues, volunteers and partners continue to give to table tennis across the area. As the Christmas break approaches, I hope everyone has the chance to pause, reflect and enjoy a well-earned rest.
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and here’s to 2026 being another positive year — one where we continue to bring the joy of table tennis to many more people across the South West.
The South West dominates the Pride of Table Tennis Awards!
Ok not just yet, but with your help we can make this happen.
Last year’s Pride of Table Tennis Awards showed just how powerful recognition can be across the South West. For winners such as David May at Cape Cornwall and Craig in St Austell, the awards brought renewed energy, wider community support and fresh momentum for their work, helping table tennis reach more people. As nominations open again, this is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the volunteers, coaches and clubs who quietly make a huge difference every week. If someone in your area deserves a thank you, please consider nominating them and helping their story be seen and celebrated. Full details and nomination information can be found here:
Women and Girls Table Tennis Afternoon Brings Community Together
A recent Women and Girls Table Tennis Afternoon in Bristol highlighted the power of targeted sessions to bring people together and grow participation. Organised by the Bristol Civil Service Table Tennis Club and delivered by Emma Harradine. The event welcomed players aged from 8 to 70, from complete beginners to more experienced participants, creating a supportive and welcoming environment to learn, play and connect. The session has already sparked interest in future activity and shows how collaboration and focused promotion can open up new opportunities within the sport.
Read the full story here:
https://www.tabletennisengland.co.uk/news/2025/sw-women-and-girls-table-tennis-afternoon-brings-community-together-bristol/
Table Tennis Clubs and Counties Thrive by Linking with Active Partnerships
Linking with a local Active Partnership such as Active Cornwall, Active Gloucestershire, WESPORT or the Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership can significantly strengthen a table tennis club’s reach and impact. These organisations connect clubs to schools, community groups, funding opportunities and local insight, helping grow clubs by activity respond to real community need. Across the South West, partnerships have supported new sessions, inclusive festivals, equipment investment, women and girls’ activity and facility development. Working together helps clubs value volunteers, raise their profile locally and create more accessible opportunities to play table tennis.
Follow the link to find out more including a short guide on connecting with your Active Partnership
If you have any news, features or would like a particular topic covered please get in touch
Contact Amanda Leonard – Area Manager (South West)
Return to the South West Area Page