The first of four Great British Tennis Weekends received a fantastic reception from the public nationwide and Somerset venues experienced a brilliant turnout from local residents of all ages, experience and abilities.
Tennis clubs and venues across the county welcomed hundreds of people to get involved in various tennis activities over weekend of 17th and 18th May. Frome Selwood Tennis Club saw over 40 new players join in at their event, whilst Queen Camel Tennis Club had over 30 new players come through its doors for a range of activities, from; Cardio Tennis to Mini Tennis to rallying against a ball machine. There were also events held at Yeovil Tennis Club, Minehead Tennis Club, Wiveliscombe Tennis Club and Bridgwater Tennis Club.
Wellington Tennis Club treated their visitors to a Wheelchair Tennis demonstration from former world 249 player, Steve Shortland. The club welcomed in more than 70 players over the weekend, they also managed to raise over £100 for the Dan Maskell Tennis Trust. The Trust, named after the late Dan Maskell – known as “the voice of Wimbledon” - is a tennis charity that raises funds to help people with disabilities.
The next Great British Weekend is on the 21st and 22nd June, the weekend before the Wimbledon Championships get underway, and there will be plenty more for the Somerset public to see and do at several events. Venues that are hosting events on both days are; Yeovil Recreation Ground, Bridgwater Tennis Club and Stoke St Gregory Tennis Club. Venues for just the Saturday are; Wiveliscombe Tennis Club. Venues for just the Sunday are; Frome Selwood Tennis Club, Taunton Tennis Club and Westfield Academy Trust.
Activities at the events include; Cardio Tennis, Mini Tennis, Disability Tennis, Coaching, Free Play, Tennis Xpress, Serving Competitions and Family Time, so there is something for everyone at the next Great British Tennis Weekend, so sign up for free today at www.greatbritishtennisweekend.com to ensure your place.
By Harry Lund