We are a group of visually impaired tennis enthusiasts. We are passionate about tennis because it has given us a fantastic hobby that we all enjoy.

We are raising funds for Tees Valley Sound Tennis and the North East Visually Impaired Tennis Club. Both clubs are incredibly keen to get as many visually impaired people into the sport as we can. Why you may ask? We believe that tennis is a fantastic sport that increases confidence, is a fun way to workout as well as giving us a real sense of belonging to a strong visually impaired tennis community both in the North East and around the UK. Some of us compete in regional, national and even international competitions. Yes, we are that serious!!

Like any sport it is an expensive hobby, but more so for us. We play with specially adapted sound balls, which cost a staggering £8 each and don’t last half as long as a regular tennis ball. On top of that, we have court hire, fees for specialist coaches along with transport costs to venues around the UK for competitions.

Last year 'The Crazy Crew' successfully abseiled from the Transporter Bridge in Middlesbrough and did a fantastic job of raising funds for our clubs. This year, with the support of 'What a Racquet', we have set ourselves the challenge of walking 21 miles along the Cinder Track from Scarborough to Whitby. Our group will be made up of both totally blind and visually impaired players as well as volunteers who will help with guiding along the track.

We have so many talented, dedicated and enthusiastic players in the North East of England, as well as the most amazing volunteers. We would like to keep growing and developing the game as well as investing in the future. That's why this year we would love to donate a portion of our funds to a local primary school in Middlesbrough. Diane Harker from What a Racquet coaches pupils from Sunnyside Academy with ages ranging from four to ten. They are in desperate need of sound balls to allow Diane to continue her fantastic work. Your donation could contribute in the development of a tennis superstar of the future!

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE support in whatever way you can.

Many thanks

Tees Valley Sound Tennis, the North East Visually Impaired Tennis Club and What a Racquet.