A documentary programme by the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) which will uncover parts of Table Tennis history is currently under production

Understandably the programme has an English bias but, of course, that is where the sport was born. It is anticipated that such items as the derivation of the trophies awarded by the International Table Tennis Federation will be covered, including a visit to a once famous club, St Brides in London.

The last Englishman to win the coveted trophy was Johnny Leach; he is featured in the programme as is former European Women’s Singles champion, Jill Hammersley (now Jill Parker). She took the camera crew back to where she used to play in her formative years and reflects on her various triumphs.

In addition, the programme will cover the development of the sport world wide and brings table tennis up-to-date with the Liebherr World Team Championships in Bremen. A BBC camera crew was present in Bremen and in addition to featuring the play and the general atmosphere of a World Championships; they visited the very impressive Liebherr ITTF Museum.

Furthermore, in Bremen, the progress of technology in the sport, the effects of the various racket covering was explained by Sebastian Rangs of the Tamasu Butterfly Company, whilst an interview with Jan-Ove Waldner was also arranged. Both should prove interesting viewing.

Details as to the date and time of the programme are yet to be announced. It is believed it will be an hour long production.