Teddington sports groups now have the chance to extend a season cut short by lockdown.

Richmond Council have announced they are accepting applications by sports groups to use public grounds beyond the usual end date of early May.

The Council said that groups have already been in touch to ask if they can use their pitches for longer than usual, as public grounds are usually either used for a seasonal sport like cricket or closed for maintenance over the summer.

Many teams have missed out on the chance to practice their sports due to social distancing restrictions which only eased up to allow non-professional outdoor sports last month.

Richmond Council said it will assess applications to keep the grounds open for sports on a case by case basis.

Ishbel Murray, Assistant Director for Environment and Community Services, said: "We understand that many teams will be wanting to continue their team sports into the summer months, to make up for lost time earlier this year.

"Where possible we will accommodate this, but we will be unable to do so in all cases.

"In some instances, the grounds must be given over to other sports but it will also be necessary for us to carry out essential maintenance on some of the grass pitches.

"Our parks and open spaces have seen a huge increase in footfall and use during the pandemic and as we head into summer, they need some care and attention to ensure they are in as good enough a condition for everyone to use during the next sports season.

"As not all sports pitches will be available, it may not be possible to accommodate every request and so would encourage teams to enquire as soon as possible."

Applications should be made to [email protected] or on 0344 324 6277.