A popular table tennis league has received a welcome boost after struggling to provide enough equipment for its players.

The Wembley and Harrow Table Tennis League, which is open to youngsters from Harrow, Brent and Hillingdon, could not cater for all those wishing to take part.

Organisers were hampered by a lack of tables and coaches, but a helpful business has stepped in to inject some much-needed funds.

Persimmon Homes North London chose the league as one of its ‘Healthy Community’ winners, granting it a £750 donation.

The gift is part of a scheme intended to support amateur sports teams with new kit, equipment, coaching opportunities or facilities.

Anthony Dias, chairman of the league, said: “We are based in Whitefriars School in Harrow Wealdstone and have regular coaching on a Saturday.

“But the numbers attending the sessions are increasing so we would really like to get more people trained to become coaches.

“I can’t tell you what this money from Persimmon Homes means to us – it will enable us to not only get more coaches, but to increase our number of tables from eight to 12.”

The Wembley and Harrow Table Tennis League is the largest in London and encourages youngsters from the age of six to take up the skill.

Organisers emphasised that it is a fantastic sport for children to take up as it is a good form of exercise that improves hand-eye coordination.

Damian Seddon, Director in Charge of Persimmon Homes North London, explained that they wanted to help create “a lasting legacy” for young people in the area.