TENNIS players are making a racquet about the news that their club has secured funding to build a new court.

Nailsworth Tennis Club has been awarded £35,000 of National Lottery funding from Sport England to develop a derelict piece of land into a floodlit third court and practice wall.

Club chairman Mark Peer said: "We are delighted to have been awarded this funding.

"We will now be able to provide more opportunities for those new to tennis as well as extra space for social tennis."

Stroud MP Neil Carmichael added: "This investment is just what we need to help create better sporting provision in the area.

"We are very grateful for Sport England's support."

To celebrate the award the club is hosting free taster sessions until Sunday.

Nailsworth Tennis Club, which was set up in 1989, is one of more than 300 projects receiving Olympic legacy funding from Sport England's Inspired Facilities fund.

Sport England chairman Nick Bitel said: "A year on from the Olympics this National Lottery investment is helping us deliver a lasting sporting legacy in Nailsworth.

"With further investment now on offer we look forward to supporting many more sports clubs in Gloucestershire which play such a vital role in grassroots sport."

Bids will be accepted for the next round of Inspired Facilities funding from October.

For more see www.sportengland.org/inspiredfacilities.

To book a free taster sessions at Nailsworth Tennis Club contact Jane Butler at jane.butler60@btinternet.com.