TABLE TENNIS: Kirkby Stephen Table Tennis Club is now a month into its new season.

Despite an early start on a rare, summer-like evening outside, many enthusiastic players arrived in the Grammar School Hall.

The first Kendal league matches began on September 20 and Kirkby have yet again entered three teams. The A team in the 1st division is intent on taking some prize scalps this year and only went down by a whisker 6-4 to Natland A - one of the top teams. They then held Cartmel B to a creditable draw.

Meanwhile, Kirkby B, with their sights on promotion back to the 2nd division, started the season in fine style with two wins, including a 10-0 victory over Natland G.

Kirkby C are also in the 3rd Division and, although losing both of their opening matches, put up a plucky resistance and are gaining experience with every match.