Table Tennis England were invited to support Michael Howard of the Milton Keynes Table Tennis League at an over-55s fair. The fair was to showcase charities and sporting organisations that could cater for the over-55 age group and signpost interested parties into participation both socially and competitively.  

The table was in use for most of the day with mothers and sons, husbands and wives, friends and family all having a go, showing how inclusive the game is.

The event was organised by the two local MPs, Ben Everitt and Ian Stewart, who were both encouraged to give the sport a try and show off their prospective skills with a bat. No scores were kept but the competitive edge was apparent in a keenly fought contest.

Table tennis is a great game for over 55s – mentally, physically and socially. Our Bat & Chat programme was developed to provide participants with the opportunity to enjoy table tennis in a friendly and relaxed environment and help tackle the recent increase in social isolation and physical inactivity.

Adult Participation Officer, Alan Lane.