BUDDING tennis stars of the future tried out their backhands and rifled their forehands on Poole’s newest courts.

Youngsters from Hamworthy Middle School joined civic leaders and Lawn Tennis Association officials to help officially open the £140,000 courts in Poole Park.

With the success of Andy Murray at the Queen’s Club tournament and the Wimbledon championships on the horizon, the LTA is hoping its £82,326 investment in the all-weather four doubles and two mini courts will help get more people playing the game.

James Munro, LTA communications director, said: “It’s encouraging to see such great facilities and to know that a family can pay £24 and use all these facilities as often as they like all year round.”

He described the key fob system, with courts bookable online, as “trailblazing” for Dorset, which is the only county to offer such a system, with 86 already sold.

“If we can work with councils like Poole to get more affordable and accessible resources there are going to be more people playing tennis and enjoying it as a sport. And who knows, with kids like this, going on to enjoy tennis not just recreationally but as a career,” he said.

Borough of Poole supplied £60,000 through planning obligations, coach Brett Townsend will be providing lessons and a range of events is planned to get people playing.

Cutting the ribbon, Poole Mayor, Cllr Phil Eades, described the courts as a “fantastic asset” for families across Poole. “I want to thank the LTA for making this project a reality. Without their contribution we wouldn’t be stood here today.”

Cllr Judy Butt, cabinet portfolio holder for public engagement and participation said: “These are superb courts for our community.”

To find out more about Poole Park Tennis go to boroughofpoole.com