TENNIS players in Leigh can look forward to playing in style over the summer thanks to a £500,000 cash boost for the facilities of the town's top sports club.

Work on six new floodlit artificial grass courts at Leigh CC 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.

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.

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

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

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

Annual membership is £80 for seniors and £20 (juniors).

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