League is a smashing way to play

A TENNIS fanatic from Howdon is urging others to get involved with their local tennis league in a bid to keep fit and save money.

Keith Wood, 51, signed up to play in the North Tyneside Tennis League two years ago after he spotted an advert for it while having a knockabout on court with friends.

Local Tennis Leagues is a nationwide initiative aimed at adults over 18 who use public parks and facilities and want to play friendly, competitive tennis.

Designed to create a unique playing experience of mixed-sex singles and doubles matches, as well as women-only leagues, the Local Tennis Leagues operate in all areas of the UK and represent a revolution in public and park tennis.

After signing up, players create their own online account where they receive the contact details of their opponents, which allows them to schedule matches as well as receive regular updates, reminders and incentives to play.

The next round of the North Tyneside Tennis League begins on November23.

IT support worker Wood, who has chalked up more than 20 matches since joining the scheme, believes playing in a Local Tennis League has been of great benefit.

He said: “It is a lot cheaper than being a member of a club.

“It costs £18 to play while being a member of a club can sometimes cost up to £160 – and you often only play for six months of the year anyway because of the weather.”

Aimed at players who use parks and public courts, Local Tennis Leagues is among a number of initiatives backed by the Lawn Tennis Assocation, the game’s governing body in the UK.

While the leagues embody a friendly ethos, all players are entitled to become British Tennis Members and have their results reported to the LTA for ratings.

To join the North Tyenside Tennis League, go to www. localtennisleagues.com/ northtyneside and sign up before November 20. The next round of games lasts for eight weeks.