In the spirit of Wimbledon, 385 hours of free tennis are being served up in Worcester.

Starting on Wednesday (July 17), tennis courts at Cripplegate Park and Gheluvelt Park are available to use at no charge at set times on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays for the next five weeks.

This offer is the result of a collaboration between Worcester City Council and Freedom Leisure.

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Deputy leader and Communities Committee chair of the council, Councillor Jabba Riaz, said: "This fantastic offer of 385 free hours of tennis is for anybody in the city.

"We want people of all ages and abilities to come and try this fantastic game and have some fun.

"We’ve got some excellent facilities at Cripplegate Park and Gheluvelt Park which we would like you to try.

"Hopefully it will lead to bigger and better things."

With a hint of optimism, Mr Riaz added: "Who knows?

"Maybe some of the next generation of tennis aces will be training at these great facilities in the next few weeks.

"Booking is required, so reserve your free court now at www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/FreedomLeisureTennis."

Five courts at the parks will be free every Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm, and on weekends from 2pm to 6pm, until the initiative ends on Sunday, August 18.

Freedom Leisure general manager, Lisa Kordas, said: "We are thrilled to be working with Worcester City Council on this project.

"It will offer 385 hours of free tennis to Worcester residents from July 17 to August 18 at Cripplegate Park and Gheluvelt Park, with rackets and balls available on request too.

"We urge everyone to pick up a racket and have a game with their friends or family.

"Whether you are an experienced player or a complete beginner, this is your chance to enjoy the Worcester parks’ tennis courts."