Why ban golf and singles outdoor tennis in lockdown?

MAMARONECK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 20: A detailed view of shoes worn by Matthew Wolff of the United States and his golf ball are seen as he plays the fifth green during the final round of the 120th U.S. Open Championship on September 20, 2020 at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, New York. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) 775478206

I am finding it hard to take that, despite Michael Gove’s comments on his Facebook Q & A, the government persisted in its mistaken policy of banning singles outdoor tennis and golf during the lockdown.

What possible reason could there be for this restriction which could only promote the health of the nation, particularly for older people like myself?

Go for a walk you may say - well, I did at the weekend and have to say that I was in much greater proximity to people than I would be on a tennis court or golf course.

I realise that the ban on playing the two sports I love pales in comparison to the problems of those facing real hardship as a result of the virus but it just seems to me that it is ridiculous to ban something which can only yield positive benefits.

I note that MP Caroline Ansell has been uncharacteristically silent on this issue in that she has not replied to my letter on the subject.

Could it be that she is embarrassed by the government’s attitude?