Today is the launch of Ping!, an innovative project which Sport England has invested in, and that will see many thousands of Londoners participating in table tennis over the next month.

Glenda Jackson MP is urging residents of Hampstead and Kilburn to make the most of the innovative project Ping! as it comes to the capital this weekend.

The nearest ping pong tables will be available at:

• Queens Park NW6 6SG
• William IV Pub 786 Harrow Road, NW10 5JX
• Old Black Lion 295-297 West End Lane, NW6 1RD

The scheme will mean that thousands of people of all ages will have the opportunity to play table tennis in the street this summer thanks to the first investment of National Lottery funding by Sport England’s Innovation Fund.

The project, Ping!, which kicks off on 24 July 2010, will see 100 table tennis tables spring up across London’s most visible spaces including squares, landmarks, offices, train stations, community locations and even airports.

All tables will be available for free impromptu use, alongside a varied programme of master classes, competitions and fun round-the-clock activity including singles for singles and beat-the robot contests.

All you need to do to join in the fun is pick up a bat from the side of the table and get playing.

Photograph by Lee Ryda.