THE first mini-tennis courts in Hertfordshire are to be officially opened in St Albans next week.

The Kids' Zone at Greenwood Park Lawn Tennis Club in Tippendell Lane, Chiswell Green, will be unveiled next Saturday, June 15.

The facility is aimed at attracting youngsters under the age of eight to play the game on a court more suited to their size.

It also has a practice wall with targets and bright colours to encourage children to take part in outdoor sport.

Funded partly by a lottery grant from Awards for All, the new development was built by St Stephen Parish Council in partnership with St Albans District Council.

The concept of mini-tennis was master-minded by Mr Phil Veasey of the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), which advised the club during construction of the Kids' Zone.

Mr Veasey said the courts and progressive thinking at Greenwood Park had created a lot of interest at LTA headquarters.

The opening of the Kids' Zone coincides with Play Tennis Day, when everyone is invited to come to the club and join in activities.

From 10am to 4pm there will be free coaching, a speed gun to measure serve speeds, a ball machine and refreshments on offer for all ages.

Special discounts on applications to join the club will also be available.

For more information call club chairman Peter Keech on 01707 267396 or see the website <www.greenwoodtennis.com>.

June 10, 2002 13:30