PEOPLE across Banbury have no excuses for not getting fit — three refurbished tennis courts have just been opened.

The courts, in People’s Park, were closed in June while contractor Record RSS set to work. And last week the firm finished two weeks ahead of schedule.

The refurbishment is part of a Banbury Town Council initiative to revamp the park, off Queens Road. Two courts will be open all the time and a third can be put into play if needed. There will also be a new fenced off games area which will provide facilities for basketball and football.

Town councillor Colin Clarke said: “We are delighted that the work has been completed ahead of schedule. The refurbished courts will be free to use and will give a real boost to sports in this area.”

Banbury’s mayor Tina Wren, who is also chairman of the Friends of People’s Park, added: “The courts will be a real asset to the park and build upon the parks already excellent level of facilities. We were also really impressed with the contractor who has fitted the refurbishment around the many events that occur in the park.”

Douglas Belfield, sales and marketing director for Record RSS, said: “The courts have a new playing surface that will allow tennis to be played throughout the year.”