BROAD Street Mall's popular Ping Pong Parlour has been shortlisted for a top sports industry award.

The Reading shopping centre has been home to a Ping Pong Parlour since June 2018, where customers have been able to enjoy a game of table tennis, completely free, whenever they like.

The BT Sports Industry Awards are the most prestigious commercial sports awards in Europe – with the awards ceremony taking place on April 25 at Battersea Evolution in London.

It will be a star-studded event attended by 1,700 high profile guests from the British and international sport industry including business leaders, celebrities, sporting legends and media.

Ping Pong Parlours have been shortlisted in the Active Award alongside British Cycling, Park Lives, London Landmarks Half Marathon, npower – Superhero Tri and the FA People’s Cup.

Acknowledged not only for encouraging people to lead more active lifestyles and getting active, the Ping Pong Parlour has also been recognised for its social contributions - encouraging individuals who may have previously been socially isolated to find friendship.

The parlour has recently undergone a refreshing refurbishment and redecoration and can be found on the ground floor, opposite Holland and Barrett.

It is open from 9am – 5.30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9am – 7pm on Thursdays and 10am-5pm on Sundays.

Nicola Williamson, centre manager at Broad St. Mall, said: "We’re thrilled that The Ping Pong Parlour project has been nominated for this incredible award.

"The project has had such amazing benefits across the board – breathing new life into previously unused spaces and encouraging individuals to lead healthier lifestyles, so they are truly deserving of this nomination.

"Fingers crossed for a win!"