A smashing opportunity to play game

WITH summer in full swing there has never been a better time for people in Newcastle to pick up a tennis racquet and get active.

The Lawn Tennis Association is offering a host of ways in which to go on court in your area.

From Tennis Tuesdays for women, Cardio Tennis for fitness fans and Tennis for Kids and Mini Tennis for children, there are many different ways to enjoy the game.

For families looking to play on court together, the Great British Tennis Weekend - the nation’s largest free tennis weekend across the country - returns on July 21 and 22.

Clubs and venues acoss the region will be opening their doors to enable everyone to give tennis a go and will offer sessions for children and adults alike.

As part of the weekend, Cramlington Community Tennis Programme is throwing open its gates on Saturday.

Between 12.15 and 2. 15 there will be opportunities to play tennis (racquets and balls will be available) at the programme’s four tennis courts in Alexandra Park, Cramlington.

Free sessions to suit the family, juniors and adults wll also be provided.

For more details, contact head coach Phil Barron on 07711 479 026.

Across the region there will be also a variety of ways to become involved in coaching, from volunteering at a local club or inspiring more women and girls to play as part of the She Rallies programme led by the LTA and Judy Murray (pictured).

Paul Bennett, LTA Regional Participation Manager for the North said: “There is so much going on in Newcastle and lots of opportunities to become involved in tennis.

“Whether you are heading for high performance or prefer to play with friends, there is something for everyone.

“Tennis equips you with so many skills which are transferable to everyday life, as well as improving fitness and boosting your mood. “

To check out Great British Tennis Weekend events in the region, go to www.lta.org.uk/finda-court.