Jack Stirling, Development Manager at Botanical Place, discusses the importance of community, wellbeing, and healthy lifestyles with Judy Maycock, Manager of Byfleet Lawn Tennis Club.
At Botanical Place, our vision is to create a vibrant community that is integrated into the neighbourhood. Shared mental and physical wellbeing must be at the heart of this. Our goal is to foster a sense of belonging and fulfilment.
Jack met up with Judy Maycock to talk about the contribution that sports clubs like the Byfleet Lawn Tennis Club make to the community and healthy lifestyles in promoting wellbeing.
Jack: Hello Judy, thank you for joining me today. What’s your secret for creating such a thriving and important centre for wellbeing? We all understand the importance of engagement and healthy living, particularly for older adults, but how can communities facilitate and encourage this?
Judy: Community and wellbeing go hand in hand, at all stages of life sports clubs like ours are uniquely placed to encourage people to be active and choose a positive outlook on life. Byfleet Lawn Tennis Club is not only a place to play tennis, but also a place where friendships can form, and social interaction can flourish alongside the physical activity.
Jack: How do you think Botanical Place can contribute to the wellbeing of residents and the surrounding community?
Judy: Since getting to know Botanical Place better, I would say that Botanical Place takes an approach similar ours as a tennis club. In the same way we offer more than simply tennis, I understand Botanical Place provides more than apartments. Our club offers a hub for social engagement, and I sense Botanical Place has a similar ethos.
Botanical Place presents the opportunity for recreational activities and access to amenities that promote overall wellbeing. Having a central public square, surrounded by shops, cafes, and green spaces, creates a conducive environment for people to come together, connect, and engage in healthy activities.
Jack: We all know staying active its good for our bodies and our minds, and obviously tennis is very good for achieving this. My question is, how do you encourage people to take up a sport like tennis, especially if they are more senior?
Judy: Sports like tennis are excellent for promoting physical fitness, coordination, and mental agility, opportunities for social engagement and camaraderie are equally important for overall wellbeing. And this is where your approach at Botanical Place comes in. Byfleet LTC welcomes members of all ages and skill levels, providing a supportive environment for enjoying the sport and building connections within the community. And, of course, collaboration and partnership with other groups.
Jack: Good segue, Judy. Finding ways to support and collaborate with other local groups and clubs in West Byfleet or the surrounding areas is as much a part of the regeneration project as the construction and landscaping efforts. Although I am relatively new to the Botanical Place team, I have been struck by the commitment and energy of the whole community.
Judy: Absolutely, we are lucky to have so many groups and activities on our doorstep. For example, the Byfleet Art Group, where locals meet for art classes but also to socialise. We also have the West Byfleet Golf Club and the Social Club right in the heart of West Byfleet.
Jack: Thank you, Judy. Before we conclude, do you have any advice for people looking for a healthier lifestyle?
Judy: Find activities that you enjoy and that allow you to connect with others. Whether it’s playing tennis, walks in the park, or joining a community gardening group, staying active and engaged is key to leading a fulfilling and healthy life.