PERSHORE Tennis Centre chiefs are hoping to attract players from Worcestershire and beyond with ambitious plans costing around £750,000.

Plans to expand their base in the grounds of Pershore College have been in the pipeline for some years but are finally going to become reality.

Two more outdoor hard courts are on the way to make a total of six, plus four new outdoor mini-tennis courts.

In addition, winter tennis enthusiasts will be attracted by three indoor courts in a complex with lounge, bar, changing rooms, reception and shop. The expansion runs alongside college plans to develop a tennis academy for students.

Funding has come from a number of sources, including Wychavon District Council, Sport England and the LTA.

Organisers have secured planning permission and intend to start construction next month with the new indoor centre opening in February next year.

Publicity manager Neville Duke said: "It will be great for young players and these covered courts will probably be the closest around for a number of people as far as Worcester and Cheltenham.

"It will be an exciting place to be in the summer and in the winter. We are now recruiting a head coach."

Mini-tennis begins for four-year-olds but the centre will be welcoming players of all ages as well as beginners.

The indoor courts are available for hire and coaching will be on hand too.

A celebration afternoon is planned for Saturday from 2.30pm with rounders, a barbecue and a licensed bar on hand.

Anyone interested in more details can call centre chairman Ian Johnson, who was heavily involved in getting the project off the ground along with Chris Lowe, on 01386-861952.