Free tennis sessions at newly-refurbished courts

The family fun day will be held at Abbey Park

People can try tennis for free on newly-refurbished courts at a Leicester park.

A family fun day will be held at Abbey Park on Saturday from 11:00 BST to 13:00, where free tennis equipment will be provided and coaches will be on hand to offer tips.

Leicester City Council said the event is an official launch for the 28 park-based tennis courts across the city which have been renovated ahead of the summer.

The £420,000 renovation programme has been carried out in partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association.

We Do Tennis, a not-for-profit community company, has partnered with the city council to provide tennis coaching and free weekly tennis sessions for people of all ages.

These will be available at Evington Park, Humberstone Park, Monks Rest Gardens, Knighton Park, Aylestone Hall Gardens, Abbey Park and Rushey Fields, typically on on a Saturday or Sunday at 10:00.

The improvements to Leicester's courts include new asphalt surfacing, repainting, replacement nets and new entrance gates.

Assistant city mayor for sports, leisure and culture, Vi Dempster, said: “This fun day will be a fantastic chance for people to come and try out our newly refurbished tennis courts as we officially launch our partnership with We Do Tennis.

"This partnership and investment demonstrates our commitment to providing high-quality tennis facilities for Leicester people, with free sessions available to encourage more people to enjoy tennis and the health benefits it can bring.”

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