Free children's tennis lessons at Egerton Park

A RAIN soaked tennis court at Egerton Park may not have been most children's ideal place to spend a half-term afternoon, but a few drops of rain did nothing to dampen the spirits of the stalwart youngsters who turned up to take advantage of the free tennis lessons which were on offer.

The two day event, lead by coach Richard Harrison, gave children taking part, the opportunity to try some basic tennis skills and, with no fees to pay, Bexhill based coach Richard, who works for SKIL said the two day event was a, "brilliant opportunity for children to get onto a tennis court and see if they like it."

Targeting school year's 2-4 and supported by Rother District Council, Sussex Lawn Tennis Association, SKIL and the Bexhill Schools Consortium, Mastersport & Play and John O'Conner, Sports Development Officer for Rother District Council, Adrian Gaylen said their aim is to, "get more children involved in playing tennis - it's also nice to see them up and active over the half term period."

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The children involved will also be given the opportunity to attend the Ladies International Tennis Event at Eastbourne on 16th June, at which time Adrian said; "They will have the chance receive more coaching in the Kids Zone and then watch some tennis on both the outside and centre courts. They will see the real international stars in action and see for themselves what it's all about - they don't always realise the skills involved, how hard the ladies hit the ball or how fit they have to be."

One of the eager youngsters taking part, was St Peter and St Paul pupil, Louise Saunders, 11, who attended with her friend Paula.

Louise was delighted to have the chance to play some tennis, and said she already has some previous experience but hadn't played for a while.

She said: "I wanted to learn some more tennis skills and give my friend Paula the chance to try it out."

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There will be more opportunities for youngsters to try their hand at tennis during the summer months, thanks to Bexhill's Activities Summer Programme, when further tennis coaching will be available at Egerton Park.

For more information call Adrian on (01424) 787583.