The Avenue Tennis Club in Burnham-On-Sea has kicked off the 2026 North Somerset Summer Tennis League, fielding an impressive seven men’s teams and four ladies’ teams.
Ladies’ fixtures opened with a standout performance from the A team of Emily Rossiter, Charlotte Bolton, Clare Gass and Megan Rundle, who travelled to Taunton A and returned with a commanding 10–1 victory. The B team also enjoyed a winning start at home, edging out Nailsea A 8–4 in a closely fought contest. The D team of Janet Boyer, Vanessa Cambridge, Jacqueline French and Jennifer Wylie secured a 7–4 win away at Winscombe C. No fixture was recorded for the ladies’ C team this week.
In the men’s league, the A team of Head Coach Tim Seymour, Stephen Kennedy, Harry Burrow and Zach Stitch faced a tough opener at home against Wedmore A, losing 10–0 despite some high‑quality rallies. The B team narrowly missed out in their away match at Weston, falling 6–4 after the sides tied on sets but Weston edged ahead on total games. The C team claimed a solid 8–4 win over Congresbury C, while the D team also enjoyed success on the road, beating Congresbury D 8–2. The E team were involved in one of the tightest matches of the week, finishing level on rubbers but losing 6–4 on game count to Cheddar C. The F team rounded off the week in style with a dominant 10–1 home winagainst Winscombe D.
Full match details can be found at competitions.lta.org.uk by searching for Avenue Lawn Tennis Club (Burnham-On-Sea) Limited.
With league fixtures running through to July, the club continues to offer regular competitive play, including men’s and ladies’ practice nights and an internal singles ladder. Anyone interested in joining the ladder can contact Club Captain Sam Goodhew via the club on 01278 782758, Facebook, or the club website.
Special event: “Love, Lust & Empire” afternoon in aid of Weston Hospice
The club will host a special fundraising afternoon on Thursday 28th May, 1.30–4pm, featuring club member and speaker Fred Riordan, who will present a lively and humorous talk exploring the true story behind the famous phrase “Not tonight, Josephine.” Tickets cost £12.50, including refreshments, with proceeds supporting Weston Hospice.
Membership, coaching and social activities
The Avenue operates an annual membership scheme from 1st April, offering access to eight floodlit courts, clubhouse facilities, a bar, coaching discounts and a busy calendar of social events.
Head Coach Tim Seymour provides group and individual coaching for juniors and adults, including cardio tennis sessions and Friday evening adult coaching. Junior holiday camps are also available and can be booked via www.tennis-extreme.com.
Pickleball continues to grow at the club, with organised sessions on Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons. Equipment is provided, and newcomers are welcome.
Friday evenings see free junior coaching sessions led by LTA coaches Vinny Duddy and Megan Rundle, followed by family social time in the clubhouse.
The club also hosts popular Wednesday Night Suppers, offering a three‑course meal for £13.50. Details of upcoming dates can be obtained from organiser Jose on 07919 116912.
The clubhouse and bar are available for private hire through committee member Dianne Kilmartin on 07803 172301.
More information about membership, coaching, social tennis and court bookings can be found at www.avenuetennis.com or by calling the club on 01278 782758.
