VETERAN tennis players are furious over a new ruling by the Sports Council at Bisham Abbey to give younger members priority for indoor courts.

The National Sports Centre has told members of the Bisham Abbey Lawn Tennis Club that the Lawn Tennis Association must have first use of the indoor courts for its up-and-coming young players.

Player Michael Makein, 62, of Stapleton Close, Marlow, said: "Twenty years ago the club was originally set up as a veterans' club. The concept was to give us the facilities at Bisham Abbey that they were not utilising fully. Now the Sports Council are being unsupportive of our community. They are being autocratic and unhelpful."

Sue Love, of Bradcutts Lane, Cookham Dean, is so furious she is quitting the Bisham club.

She said: "They are still charging £200 and we are only allowed to use three of the outdoor courts.

"I do not think anybody will pay their prices now."

The Sports Council and the club's chairman David Douglas denied there was a problem.

Mr Douglas said: "The Sports Council are being very reasonable. If some of the club members are unhappy, they can leave.

Mark England, of the Sports Council, said the courts should be given over to younger players to encourage sporting excellence.

He said: "We have sorted out some niggling problems that have been happening over the last couple of seasons. We have said they can use the courts on a pay and play basis.

"Obviously one or two members do not appear to be happy with the outcome."

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