The final event in the diary of Bolton’s outgoing Mayor Cllr Mohammed Ayub proved a milestone for one of the country’s oldest sports clubs.

Markland Hill Racquets Club in Victoria Road, Heaton, used its annual open day to celebrate new developments totalling almost £150,000 to help ensure the 97 year-old club’s future.

The improvements included refurbishment of squash courts, new changing rooms and replacement fencing around all six tennis courts.

And the club invited the Mayor of Bolton to officially open its new changing rooms on a sun-filled day when around 300 visitors joined in fun activities.

Family member of all ages tried out tennis, squash, badminton and Pickleball. There was food from Sushma’s Snacks, Cakeology and Smithills Farm ice-cream, a raffle, an auction and a bouncy castle.

Around 20 new members signed up on the day and a dozen more for junior coaching courses.

Club chairman Dave Saunders said: “It was a fabulous day – something for everyone to do and having the Mayor come along just made it all perfect.

“At a time when many sports clubs are struggling for members and facilities, we are very grateful that we are able to invest in Markland Hill club to make it more accessible to everyone and encourage a sport for all ethos.”