TENNIS players in Leigh can look forward to playing in style over the summer thanks to a half-a-million pounds cash boost for the grounds of the town's top sports club.

Work on six new floodlit artificial grass courts at Leigh Cricket, Tennis and Bowling Club in Pennington, will be completed in time for the start of the tennis season after Easter.

A seventh tarmac court will also be added, as well as a new changing and refreshments block and a total refurbishment of the bar.

As reported in the Journal, the development has been made possible by a lottery grant of £350,000, an interest-free loan of £172,000 from the Lawn Tennis Association and a £25,000 grant from the Foundation for Sport and Arts.

Juniors and seniors who play team tennis at the club in Beech Walk start practice matches this month and matches will be held four nights a week with league teams in Leigh, Walkden, Bolton and Warrington.

Tennis section chairman Ian Johnson said: "This is going to be a huge benefit to the people of the area.

"The club is a focal point for young people, not just from Pennington, but from all over Leigh and the surrounding towns.

"The LTA have been particularly impressed with our efforts to build up a strong junior squad.

"We have teams in the Bolton and Warrington leagues and last year we won quite a few trophies."

Membership Secretary Jean Donohue said: "We're keen to attract new players at all levels. Beginners are always made to feel welcome.

"We have an open night on a Friday when new members are encouraged to join in friendly matches.

"We have fun tournaments throughout the season as well to make sure everyone has a chance for competition."

The club plays host to about 60 senior members of the tennis section and almost as many juniors.

Annual membership costs £80 for seniors and £20 for juniors.

Cricket facilities at the club have also been improved with new practice nets and wickets being installed as well as changing facilities for visiting teams and officials having had an upgrade.

Anyone interested in joining the tennis club should contact Jean Donohue on 01942 608958 or the clubhouse on 01942 671818.