IT IS game on at Church Square Shopping Centre as the highly anticipated Ping Pong Parlour has now opened serving up free fun table tennis sessions.

The Ping Pong Parlour was launched at the start of this week in partnership with Table Tennis England.

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Visitors can now enjoy a free game of table tennis during the centres opening hours of 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

All shoppers are welcome to drop in and to join in the free fun, simply grab a bat from the side of the table and begin playing.

Steve Brogan, Church Square’s Centre manager, said: “We are delighted our Ping Pong Parlour is now open to the general public.

"The introduction has seen a warm and positive welcoming already and will certainly raise awareness on the importance of health and wellbeing amongst people it the local community.

"The parlour is an exciting attraction for the whole community and we hope we inspire people to keep fit and healthy as well as injecting a little extra fun into their shopping day in the centre by shopping, socialising and playing.”

The Parlour, in partnership with Table Tennis England, aims to help people get active and live healthier lives through table tennis. The sporting initiative also serves to get people socialising and is perfect for visitors of any age and has recently been shortlisted for a BT Sports Industry Award.

It had initially been due to arrive in St Helens in April but has landed in town this week.

“Following the success of our 30 other Ping Pong Parlours nationwide, the team at Table Tennis England are delighted to open a Parlour in Church Square Shopping Centre, we’re sure it will be very well received by the community;” said Julie Snowdon, marketing officer at Table Tennis England.

“Ping Pong Parlours are aimed at everyone - irrespective of age, ability or gender, especially those who wouldn’t normally consider going out to play a sport, by reaching them in a place they already spend time.

"The Parlour will be available to pop into and play; completely free and without having to book.”