BADMINTON is one of our medal hopes in the Olympics with Worcestershire player Simon Archer a strong contender in the mixed doubles and coaches are hoping that the publicity for the game will encourage more people to take up or return to this popular racket sport.

When not watching the Olympics, members of Malvern Badminton Club will be preparing for the start of the new season.

The club meets on Wednesdays and Fridays and provides social and competitive badminton from September through to Easter with teams in the Worcester and Evesham Leagues.

Last season was particularly successful for the Men's team with Men's 1 winning the Premier Division in the Evesham League for the third time in six years and Men's 2 gaining promotion to Division Two in the Worcestershire League. The other teams had mixed fortunes but maintained their overall league positions.

New players are always welcome and they are especially encouraged to come along to one of the club open evenings scheduled for early September. The club supports the work of Malvern Schools Junior Badminton by providing coaches for their separate playing sessions.

Arrangements for the open evenings are: Wednesday, September 6 & 13 at Malvern College Sports Hall, Woodshears Road from 7.45pm and Friday, September 8 & 15 at Imperial Road from 7.45pm.

For further information about the Senior Club contact Chas Price on (01684) 563388 or (07773) 639804. For details of Junior badminton opportunities contact Don McKay on (01684) 575147.