Search is on to find future tennis stars

Photo: Darren Robinson

LEFT to right: Amiyah Warburton, Maryam Ali, Adam Smethurst (coach), Suhayl Ali, Adam Cooper and Sophie Harris.

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AS WIMBLEDON gets underway, potential future champions have been getting into the swing of the game at Failsworth Sports Campus.

They have completed a free, six-week community tennis programme to help find the next Andy Murray or Laura Robson.

Tennis for Kids hopes to inspire children aged between five and eight to pick up a racket and play tennis for the first time.

It aims to capitalise on Great Britain's Davis Cup win and is the Lawn Tennis Association's biggest grassroots initiative.

Adam Smethurst, head tennis coach at the Brierley Avenue centre, is delighted that it was chosen to take part.

He said: "It's an honour to be given the chance to help more children get into tennis.

"Living in Failsworth myself, and having this fantastic sports facility on our doorstep, I am positive that this scheme will help improve participation.

"Some of those who took part have the potential to go on and become really good if they carry on playing."

Tennis lessons are available at Failsworth Sports Campus on Thursdays from 6pm to 7pm for children in years one to three and 7pm to 8pm to for those in years four to six.

For information contact Adam on 07985 470 878 or adam.smethurst0988@gmail.com.

Facility manager Paul Watson added: "I am so pleased to have tennis back at the campus and long may it continue."