Illustration by Christine Fuller
The illustration is creative interpretation and intended for humour only. No offence is intended or implied.
The Eastern Daily Press of Wednesday the 26th November, 1930, reported on a social evening held at ‘the Council School, Great Ellingham’ on the previous Friday.
The event, organised to boost the funds of the village Tennis Club, was described as a success. Entertainment was provided by members and friends of the club, who included Mr and Mrs Sidell, Mr and Mrs Huggins, Mr Chilleystone and Mr Reynolds. Little Ellingham Band was also in attendance.
The Master of Ceremonies, Mr E Beales, gave thanks to all who had contributed to the successful evening. He particularly offered his thanks to Mrs King and Mrs Rix for their assistance with the refreshments.
Tennis Club
A Tennis Club was formed by Olive and Ernest Beales of Town Green Farm along with Hilda Melton. The tennis court was on the meadow/orchard next to Town Green Farmhouse.
The Club eventually moved to the Recreation Ground, and was just the other side of the some very tall trees (towards the present Scout hut), which are no longer there.
At this time, the Club members included Ray and Maureen Beales, Heather Forder (Little Mo), Ivor Melton, Mrs Scase (the baker’s wife at The Mill in Church Street), and members of the Partridge family.
The Club closed in 1958. I am realiably informed that the nets and posts still exist.
Further Tennis Courts
At one time there was also a tennis court at Bury Hall. In the 1940s, there were tennis courts at Ye Olde Thatche Shoppe (in Church Street).
Updated 21.10.2026
Source:
26th November, 1930 Eastern Daily Press. Accessed via Localrecall.co.uk accessed 18th July, 2020
Thanks to Ray & Maureen Beales, Jacky Phoenix and Carol Ewin