INSPIRED by Wimbledon, dozens got the chance to try tennis at a Gorse Hill club on Saturday.

Swindon Community Tennis opened its gates to wannabe-players of all ages, with sessions designed to give people a flavour of the sport.

The charity project’s ten full-size courts and four junior courts were given over to the public for the Great British Tennis Weekend – a nationwide initiative organised by the Lawn Tennis Association that saw hundreds of clubs across the country open their doors.

Michaela Sillick, 45, communications manager at Swindon Community Tennis, which is based at St Mark's Recreation Ground, said that 60 people had booked onto the free coaching sessions.

“We’re inviting the general public to come and give tennis a go for free. The event is for all ages, but we’ve had a lot of interest from people who want to let their kids have a go.”

One of those parents was Derry Mullin. The 42-year-old from Lawn was watching on as his two children were taken through their paces by Swindon Community Tennis’ specialist coach Craig Loxton.

“They did a freebie class here a few months back,” said Derry. “My son Kyle likes hitting the balls around.”

The dad added: “I haven’t picked up a tennis racket since school. I enjoy watching Wimbledon these days.”

Swindon Community Tennis, the charity project that organised the event, is hoping to get more Swindon residents playing the sport.

They offer a £30 annual family pass – allowing members to book the courts for free.

Neil Allen has been playing tennis for 50 years. The trustee of Swindon Community Tennis said: “There’s this thing about tennis being expensive and about belonging to a club.

“But here it works out at 8p a day. The families who come say it’s a no brainer.”

Tim Poole, 56, chairman of Swindon Community Tennis, said: “We want to get as many people playing tennis as possible. It’s really good for kids and it’s really good for adults.

“The sport is not just good for keeping you fit - some of my lifelong friends I’ve picked up through sport.”

To find out more about Swindon Community Tennis, visit: www.swindoncommunitytennis.org.uk.