A WIRRAL squash club is celebrating its 50th birthday.

Heswall Squash Racquets Club (HSRC) is recognised as one of the "best-equipped, members squash and racketball clubs in the North West of England".

Conceived and built by a handful of keen squash players in 1974, HSRC continues its legacy and is a vibrant, much-loved members club run entirely by volunteers.

They currently have five teams that play in the league, including a ladies' team, men's team, and junior team.

Leah Barker, bar and function manager, explained how the club is "still going strong" after 50 years.

She said: "Squash is a bit of a dying sport but we’re still going and still have lots of members.

"We're trying to build the youth part of it, and also have racket ball and yoga now. The club has developed a lot over the 50 years."

Wirral Globe: The club has been running since the 70sThe club has been running since the 70s (Image: Heswall Squash Racquets Club)

The club also has a function room which is available for hire for events such as christenings, birthdays, and funerals.

Explaining why it is so important to get involved with a club such as theirs, Leah said it helps the "social and mental health side of things".

Wirral Globe: Function roomFunction room (Image: Heswall Squash Racquets Club)

She added: "We've got youths that come with their families and all get involved. 

"It's about keeping yourself fit, but also the social aspect of it all.

"Some have gone from not being able to hit a ball to playing in the North West league."

Wirral Globe: There is a chance for juniors to playThere is a chance for juniors to play (Image: Heswall Squash Racquets Club)

Ex-presidents are still also "very involved" with the club.

"Some might not be playing but are still part of the club and moving in forward", Leah explained.

"There is lots of community and loyalty with our members".

Regular events at the club include:

  • Junior Squash Coaching with Emily  - Fridays at 6.30pm
  • Box Leagues for Squash and Racketball
  • Squash and Racketball "social mix-ins" on Sunday evenings for less competitive play
  • "Mix-in" visitors welcome on Sunday evenings (by prior arrangement) for three, free trial visits
  • In Club Tournaments for all levels
  • ESR qualified Coaches for all ages and ability
  • Squash and Racketball "mentoring" on an informal basis
  • Dedicated sessions for Junior squash players (aged five to 18) 6.30pm Friday evenings (please check dates and availability)
  • Yoga and aerial yoga classes most days with Lee Brogan and his team from Wirral PT
  • Bridge clubs and classes, various daytime and evening sessions with David O'Keeffe
  • Social events including: tournaments, quiz nights, live music and dances
  • The 100 Club

They are also home to The Pensby Runners Club and informal meetings of The Heswall Anglers Club.

New members are always welcome, regardless of age, squash experience or ability.

To find out more, visit here.