Squash courts reopen in Ryde under coronavirus guidance

It what is the first step in a phased reopening, with new measures in place to keep players and staff safe, courts will open for socially-distanced games and practices, as set out by Squash England.

Players from the same household can engage in match play, or a full squash game, while two players from different households can play a modified version of ‘sides’.

All players are to book their court online, bring their own rackets and balls and disinfect them regularly.

The guidance also includes players are to take their belongings onto the courts, with lockers and changing facilities currently closed because of coronavirus.

Stuart Babington, 1Leisure's facility manager, said: "We have tried and tested the courts with the Isle of Wight Squash Academy to ensure the measures put in place keep players and staff safe.

“We’re confident we’re complying with the government guidance and we look forward to seeing our players in the courts again.”

The Isle of Wight Council's cabinet member for environment and heritage, Cllr John Hobart, said: "We are looking forward to welcoming our valued customers back to our squash courts once more.

"The staff at 1Leisure have worked incredibly hard to ensure they are keeping everyone safe.”