Whitley Chapel Badminton Club is seeking new members to join and contribute to its future growth.

The long-established club held its inaugural meeting on September 30, 1957.

Initially, badminton was played in Whitley Chapel Parish Hall every Monday night from September to Easter.

Founding members included individuals such as the local publican from Click’em Inn and the school's Headteacher, and 26 locals joined within the first month.

Membership fees in the first year amounted to 15 shillings (75p), and the club purchased shuttles, rackets, a net, and other essential equipment for £9 19s 6d (£9.99).

Fast forwarding to the present, Whitley Chapel has achieved success in both competitions and in fostering a strong social environment.

Coaching programmes for juniors have been introduced, and many Shire children have become members of district and county squads.

In recent years, the club has moved its base to the newly built sports hall at Queen Elizabeth High School, allowing for more courts and increased participation.

Club nights will be held at Queen Elizabeth High School on Thursday evenings, and competitive matches in the Northumberland Leagues will take place throughout the season.

For more information or to get involved, contact the club chair, Angela James, via email at angelamjames11@gmail.com.