MORE than 200 children have spent at least a week of their summer holidays playing tennis in Hartford.

Head coach John Walsh has been running the camps at the Chester Road club for 15 years and they are now a popular pastime during the holidays.

"We make it a lot of fun for everyone, but also try to ensure as many of the players as possible see improvements in their game,” said John.

“It seems to work as we get a lot of people booking for a second week so we must be doing something right."

As well as children of all ages Hartford PCSO Michelle Gillett popped in to the camps to test out her forehands and backhands.

In mid September attention will switch to an older generation of players as John will be running drop-in coaching sessions on Wednesdays from 7pm to 8pm for £5 a time.

“We are opening this up to everyone, not just members,” said John.

“Our goal at Hartford has always been to encourage as many people to take up the sport as possible and that will never change.”

For more details about tennis coaching call John on 07801 822844.