TEENAGE tennis star Lewis Barnes added to his growing collection of silverware with success at the U16 National Grand Prix championship - despite being one of the youngest players.

The 14-year-old from Torton, who trains full time at the LTA academy at Loughborough University, showed great form to lift the top prize at the event in Cardiff.

It is the latest in a string of achievements for Barnes who was part of the three-man GB team that won the world championships in the Czech Republic last August.

Watched by his coach Australian Mark Taylor and LTA academy head coach Leighton Alfred, Lewis performed very well through the rounds despite being a year under-age.

Only fellow academy player Dan Evans caused him any real trouble, taking him to three sets, while he swept aside his other opponents, including finalist Tom Knights, in straight sets.

Despite his tender age, Barnes, who is sponsored by Fred Perry and Wilson, is 6ft 3ins tall with a 120mph serve and was admitted to the academy a year early.

An untimely bout of tonsilitis prevented the former Lickhill Middle School pupil from making his debut on the Men's British Tour in Doncaster last week. It was a major blow for Lewis who was the youngest qualifier in the main draw.

He will make his debut on the International Tennis Federation U18 tour in Denmark, Norway and Ireland in the summer.

Stourport Tennis and Squash Club are urging people of all ages to put a spring into their step by playing tennis.

The Tan Lane club is holding an open day on Saturday, from 2pm until 4.30pm, with free four-week membership for those who attend on the day.

Visitors will be able to play tennis free of charge, have the speed of their serve tested by a special machine and receive specialist tuition from club coach Rob Tarpey.

The club, which is actively involved in encouraging youngsters to take up the sport, is offering junior coaching from on Friday between 4.30pm and 7.30pm.

The club has six courts in total, four of which are floodlit courts for year-round play. For more details contact Rob Tarpey on 07989 437969.

Bewdley Tennis Club are holding an open day on Sunday, starting at 2pm.

It is open to players of all standards and of all ages.

There will be many activities, including a speed gun, a ball machine and a barbecue. Club members will give visitors guided tours of the facilities.

Everyone taking part must wear sports clothing and flat-soled trainers.

For further information telephone club coach Tracey Powell on 07970 549974 - or just turn up on Sunday.