A Worcester City Council scheme which provided free tennis courts this summer has been a resounding success.
In partnership with provider Freedom Leisure, the Council made tennis courts at Cripplegate Park and Gheluvelt Park free to use at set times for five weeks between 17 July and 18 August.
Of the 359 hours of free tennis courts available, 94% were used (336).
Worcester City Council’s Deputy Leader and Communities Committee Chair, Councillor Jabba Riaz, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people taking advantage of the scheme.
“This year we held the free tennis sessions post-Wimbledon at the request of residents and councillors, and the result has been a fantastic take-up.
“Hopefully the scheme has encouraged people to pick up a racket for the first time or rekindle their love for the sport.
“Maybe some of the next generation of tennis stars have been learning the game at the excellent facilities we have available at Cripplegate Park and Gheluvelt Park.”
Lisa Kordas, General Manager at Freedom Leisure, said: "It was fantastic to see so many people taking advantage of the free tennis sessions, especially the number of families playing together during the summer holidays.
“We’re eager to welcome back all these participants and look forward to seeing new faces on the courts in the coming months.
“To book the courts or to find out about lessons visit https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/FreedomLeisureTennis”