2004

Once again, as in 2002, the subject of smoking was an issue, finally it was decided by membership ballot, with a result of 127 to 60, that a no smoking policy should be adopted throughout the Club. As from 1^st April this change was adopted. 

Membership had been dropping over the past few years therefore an effort was made to attract new members. There were posters distributed and a mail shot covering the local area with invitations to a summer open evening. 

For the second year in succession the Ladies 1^st team reached the final of the Essex Senior Cup, this time to be beaten by Westcliff Lawn. 

In July, issue 30 of ‘Net-Cord News’ became the last. The newsletter was first published in 1992 and articles for publication in the latter years became scarce. There were several changes of layout and editor over the years, but it had served a purpose, which was now hoped to be catered for by the Club website. 

The Finance Committee drew up spending plans for future development, namely, the installation of floodlights on courts 1 and 2 for which local authority planning permission had been approved, upgrading of the existing courts, pruning of conifers, the provision of an additional storage facility at the rear of the clubhouse and resurfacing of the car park area.

2005

In an effort to streamline management, further changes were implemented to the structure of the Committee. It was thought to be too large with too much time spent discussing issues that could be handled by working committees. 

Once again the juniors had another successful season in the Chelmsford League with five teams competing in the finals. In the National Club League the Girls U12 and U18 teams were County champions with the U12 team going on to reach the regional final.

2006

With a full complement of committee members and with sub-committees given the authority to seek approval for various projects, although within constraints of a budget, much was achieved. 

The clubhouse benefited from a spruce up of the bar lounge with removal of the smoke extractor fan and a fresh ceiling. This was followed with a revamp of the lounge with new blinds, notice boards, trophy cabinet, television and decoration. The Club website was redesigned and a new handbook produced. 

There was a major refurbishment on courts 5 to 8, with new synthetic grass and replacement of nets and posts. The conifers surrounding the courts were pruned which with the renewal of the floodlight lamps made for a better playing experience. 

The social calendar gained more support with the reappearance of some old favourites, namely an Indian night, a soul night, summer barbecue and the return to the Cranleigh for the Dinner Dance. 

The Club achieved county accreditation within the LTA’s Club Performance Programme. Benefits were a grant of £4000 from Essex LTA awarded for 12 months and reviewed based on results of the juniors selected to join the programme.

2007

The Club becomes 75 years old on the 5^th August this year. 

The next major project should involve acrylic courts 1 and 2. Options are being discussed with the LTA but much will depend on the availability of grants or loans.