FRESH from playing in the senior men’s doubles final at Wimbledon, Jeremy Bates visited Painswick Lawn Tennis Club to open two new courts.

More than 100 members and guests gathered to watch him lead some coaching drills for members prior to playing in an exhibition doubles match with the men’s ‘A’ team.

The ribbon to open the courts was cut by Bates to a fanfare, and the release of balloons and cheers.

The courts have been built with the assistance of substantial funding from the LTA and Van Willerton, Operations manager for the Midlands area, said how pleased they were to support a progressive club such as Painswick and would be watching further developments with great interest.

Painswick president John Courts thanked all those who had supported the project and particularly the LTA. He said: "This is an excellent example of funding coming into ‘grass roots’ tennis and Painswick LTC is delighted to be the recipient. “It is now up to the Club to make best possible use of this facility to expand tennis activity for all ages and provide juniors with a skill for life." He added: “Maybe we can even uncover a Wimbledon champion.”

For more information about the club and how to join see www.painswick tennisclub.co.uk