Worthing trampoline club moves to new temporary home

Sussex Martlets Trampoline Club has jumped at the chance to set up in a new temporary venue, having been based at Worthing Leisure Centre since 1978.
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The club has not been able to return to the centre, because South Downs Leisure has filled the main hall with gym equipment as part of its changes to allow for social distancing.

Coaches and committee members were determined to get the gymnasts back to training, however, and were pleased to be able to sign a deal with The Flying Fortress in Ford.

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Polly Hearn said: “We are emotionally invested and passionate about the ability to get the gymnasts back training but it feels like a great example of determination and adaptability of all concerned to find a solution in these very uncertain times.

Back in action on the trampolinesBack in action on the trampolines
Back in action on the trampolines

“It has proven difficult to find alternative premises, given the bulky equipment and the height required, but the club teamed up with The Flying Fortress and is relocating there on a temporary basis.

“Soft play continues to be one of the activities unable to open during the current crisis and so owner Violaine Roberts was delighted to offer her support.”

The four full-sized trampolines were moved once Arun District Council’s environmental health team gave the green light.

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The club had stopped training in March, due to the Covid-19 restrictions, but welcomed members back on Monday, August 3, with temperature checks and social distancing restrictions in place.

Sussex Martlets Trampoline Club members in their new home, The Flying Fortress in FordSussex Martlets Trampoline Club members in their new home, The Flying Fortress in Ford
Sussex Martlets Trampoline Club members in their new home, The Flying Fortress in Ford

There are more than 100 members, aged from three to young adults, and many go on to compete at regional and national competitions.

Training sessions will still be held three times a week but they will feel very different, in line with government guidance.

Additional cleaning will be carried out and coaches will be using non-physical training techniques.

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Polly said: “During a time of reduced income and additional expense, the club has welcomed the donation of a radar thermometer from Worthing-based company, Electronic Temperature Instruments (ETI), to help with the screening of members. And keeping things local, the club is also grateful to P&H removals for the safe and careful transportation of the trampolines.”

Temperature check on arrival using a thermometer donated by Worthing firm ETITemperature check on arrival using a thermometer donated by Worthing firm ETI
Temperature check on arrival using a thermometer donated by Worthing firm ETI

The plan is to continue to train at The Flying Fortress until the end of this year, then hopefully return home to Worthing Leisure Centre.

For details of training sessions available, visit www.sussexmartletstc.co.uk

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Back in action on the trampolinesBack in action on the trampolines
Back in action on the trampolines
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