WITH the British tennis season getting into full swing and Wimbledon just around the corner, those hoping to take their first steps into the sport did so during a four-day tennis camp at Wey Valley School and Sports College.

Youngsters, mainly aged eight and under, were taught the basics of the game through the Lawn Tennis Association’s (LTA) mini red tennis, a version of the sport that has smaller courts and bigger, bouncier balls.

And as well as brushing up on their forehands and backhands, the children had a go at other sports during the camp, including rounders and cricket.

“There was a really good turnout for most of the sessions,” said coach and organiser Julien Lawes. “The lowest number we had on a day was 24 and most of the time it was 30 plus, even when it was pouring down with rain on one of the days.”

Wey Valley was the perfect host considering it is due to open a £1million tennis facility later this year thanks to grants from the LTA, Department for Children, Families and Schools, school capital funds and grants from Dorset County Council.

Lawes added: “It’s exciting times with Wey Valley getting the indoor tennis facility – it’s pretty unbelievable.”