TENNIS players of all levels have been showing 'love' to the free courts at two city parks.

Residents have been making the most of the free courts at Cripplegate Park, in St Johns, and Gheluvelt Patk, in Barbourne.

People could access the courts for free at set times for five weeks between Wednesday, July 17 and Sunday, August 18.

Of the 359 hours of free tennis courts available, 94 per cent were used (336 hours).

Worcester City Council provided the tennis courts for free in partnership with provider Freedom Leisure.

Councillor Jabba Riaz, the city council’s deputy leader and communities committee chair, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people taking advantage of the scheme.

“This year we held the free tennis sessions post-Wimbledon at the request of residents and councillors, and the result has been a fantastic take-up.

“Hopefully the scheme has encouraged people to pick up a racket for the first time or rekindle their love for the sport.

“Maybe some of the next generation of tennis stars have been learning the game at the excellent facilities we have available at Cripplegate Park and Gheluvelt Park.”

Lisa Kordas, general manager at Freedom Leisure, said: "It was fantastic to see so many people taking advantage of the free tennis sessions, especially the number of families playing together during the summer holidays.

“We’re eager to welcome back all these participants and look forward to seeing new faces on the courts in the coming months.

“To book the courts or to find out about lessons visit https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/FreedomLeisureTennis."