BADMINTON courts at the Isle of Wight's 1Leisure site in Newport have taken the first step of a phased reopening this week.

Initially courts will open for socially distanced games and practises as set out by Badminton England with new measures in place to keep players and staff safe.

Groups of up to six players from different households can play full court singles and full court doubles with social distancing in place.

Four players can be on court, while two will be able to safely social distance on allocated benches courtside.

Players are required to book their court online, bring their own rackets and shuttles and disinfect them regularly. The guidance is players are to take their belongings onto the courts as lockers and changing facilities are closed.

Squash courts also move into the next phase of reopening now, allowing ‘squash bubbles’ of up to six players.

Stuart Babington, facility manager, said: "We have tried and tested the courts to ensure measures put in place keep players and staff safe and are the current government guidance."

Cllr Wayne Whittle, Cabinet member for regeneration, business development and leisure centres, said: "We are looking forward to welcoming our valued customers back to badminton courts once more.

"The staff at 1Leisure have worked incredibly hard to ensure they are keeping everyone safe.”