MEMBERS of Woolhope Tennis Club took part in triple celebrations over weekend.

Brand new courts, three winning teams and a new junior coaching initiative were applauded by those who attended a lunch party at the club on Sunday.

The new courts and pavilion were officially opened by Bryan White, secretary of Herefordshire Sports Council. Funding for the scheme came partly from the National Lottery, matched by a similar amount from club funds.

Of the five teams fielded by the club, three won their leagues within different divisions of the Herefordshire West section. Ladies' A won their winter and summer leagues, Ladies' B topped their winter league, and Men's B triumphed in their summer league.

As part of the club's initiative to improve the standard of their juniors, Tracy Powell, Hereford and Worcester ladies' champion has been enlisted to lead junior coaching sessions. On Saturday 21 children between the ages of six and 12 took part in the first of many sessions due to take place throughout the summer.

Founded in 1972, the club enjoy a healthy membership of players from Hereford and the many villages surrounding Woolhope. New members are welcome and should contact Phil Dinnie, club treasurer, on 01432 860492 or Ken Gray, club secretary on 01432 860774.

l Pictured at the opening, left to right, vice-chairman Ian Dinnie, Bryan White and chairman Nick Waters.

Hereford Times photgraph by Ray Lloyd 2012/12