Curling sign-ups in Tunbridge Wells double after Winter Olympic success
Tunbridge Wells curling club increase sessions and introduce a four-week "learn and develop" league
The curling club located in Tunbridge Wells has experienced a significant increase in interest following the Winter Olympics and Team GB's silver medal achievement, with more than 1400 novices book so far this year.
Once closed due to a lack of participants, the club reopened in April last year and has since seen membership numbers more than double.
The Tunbridge Wells curling club, one of only two dedicated ice rinks for curling in England, now offers more sessions to accommodate the growing interest.
These include "try curling" sessions for newcomers and a four-week "learn and develop league" aimed at competition readiness.
Ben Gillard, an instructor at the club, said they have been consistently busy since the Olympics, with groups of 24 participants regularly attending.
Ben Gillard, who has curled for England in the past, is dedicated to promoting the sport and teaching new players.
"The aim is to have as many people curling for their first time and then get them ready for leagues and competitions," Ben Gillard said.
He described curling as strategic and requiring balance, but noted that it is relatively easy to get into once you try.
For those trying it for the first time, Mr Gillard encourages giving everything a go, emphasising staying on your feet helps.
In curling teams, four players take different roles: lead, second, vice, and skip.
The skip plays a strategic role and throws the last two stones, while the lead sets up the beginning of the end for potential scoring.
Curling is more accessible than many people expect, Ben Gillard concluded, encouraging those interested to come down and give it a go.