Residents of Benedict Street in Glastonbury will be noticing a long-awaited and much wished for change to the derelict tennis courts at the bottom of the street.

Glastonbury Town Council has identified thousands of pounds of unspent funds that have to be spent on leisure and recreation equipment.

Known as "Section 106 contributions", these funds are generated through contributions from residential developments and the period in which they can be allocated is time bound.

In recognising the necessity to present a project that was ready to deliver, the town council applied to Mendip District Council and has been awarded funds sufficient to reinstate the tennis courts and five-a-side football/netball/basketball courts off Benedict Street.

The inspiration and enthusiasm of volunteers to reinstate the courts themselves did not go unrecognised.

Proof of community need and a desire for the community to involve and use the facilities carried significant weight in demonstrating to the district council the benefits of refurbishing the courts.

The Mayor of Glastonbury, Cllr Jon Cousins, says he is delighted that this investment is now secured and that works to renovate the courts are underway.

He said: "When members of our community demonstrate that they are passionate enough about a project that they set about delivering it themselves, they deserve our wholehearted and full support."

Preparatory works of the site have already started with town council staff removing much of the overgrown foliage and shrubs.

It is anticipated that the courts will be re-laid commencing the week of November 16 and, on completion, will be marked out ready for play. It is not yet clear whether outdoor tennis will be allowed during the upcoming lockdown.

Apologies are extended by Glastonbury Town Council that the facilities will not be available for use until the works are completed.