We may not have a British Wimbledon winner this year but anyone visiting Blackpool’s seafront over the next few days can still get involved in the action. The arrival of a tennis court on Blackpool’s world famous promenade means that any budding Andy Murray’s or Laura Robson’s can pick up a racquet and have a go at the sport for themselves.

The court, which has been set up to raise awareness and funds for Variety, the Children’s Charity, will be open on Saturday and Sunday, between 10am and 4pm, and is situated on Blackpool’s Festival Headland, next to the Comedy Carpet, directly across from iconic Blackpool Tower. Anyone wishing to play can lend equipment for free, from the van.

The court is made from high quality artificial grass and has been kindly provided by EverLawn® who provide similar installations to many schools and councils. The realistic surface gives players the feeling that they are on real grass, something which may take a bit of getting used to when playing somewhere that is usually more associated with beach balls and deck chairs.

David Jones Chairman of Variety Blackpool, Wyre and the Fylde said;

“As a committee we are always looking at new and exciting ways to promote the charity and what better way to do that than by putting a tennis court on Blackpool’s seafront for the first time ever! We hope that many people will come along, have lots of fun and also help make a difference to the lives of sick, disabled and disadvantaged children in the area. I would like to thank Kate Shane of Merlin Entertainments, Chris Pope of Visit Blackpool and the team at EverLawn® as without their help and assistance we would not have been able to stage this fantastic event.”

Steven Morgan, Managing Director of EverLawn® adds:

We are pleased to be able to work with Variety on this project and look forward to seeing many people enjoy a game of tennis on the court we have provided. EverLawn® are committed to helping local causes and through this event we hope that we can assist Variety, the Children’s Charity in raising much needed funds.”