A MEMORABLE day of community engagement and grassroots sport as the president of the Lawn Tennis Association visits Ross-on-Wye.

On a sun-drenched British summertime day, Ross Tennis Centre on Walford Road, was honoured by the visit of Sandi Procter, the president of the Lawn Tennis Association.

Her presence signified the association’s ongoing commitment to supporting grassroots tennis and recognising the contributions of local clubs to the broader sporting landscape.

A significant aspect of the visit was the meeting between Ms Procter and members of the centre’s committee.

This group, composed of volunteers passionate about tennis and the wellbeing of their centre, seized the opportunity to discuss strategic plans for growth and sustainability. Topics included the need for grants to upgrade facilities, ideas in how to boost membership and to further cultivate walking tennis and colours of lines for the new pickleball courts.

Ms Procter listened attentively, taking notes and offering perspectives drawn from her extensive experience in tennis administration and development.

She emphasised the importance of clubs like Ross Tennis Centre in nurturing future talent and enriching the local community.

The committee plans to follow up on several points raised during the discussions, including exploring new funding sources and developing fresh programmes for both juniors and adults with the aim of making the local tennis centre an even more vibrant and inclusive hub for this racquet sport in the community.

A spokesman for Ross Tennis Club said: “The visit of the Lawn Tennis Association’s president to our centre was a testament to the strength and vitality of grassroots tennis.

“It underscored the importance of open communication between local clubs and national bodies, and it celebrated the dedication of countless individuals who make tennis accessible and enjoyable for all.”

Ross Tennis Centre is run by volunteers for the whole community and welcomes non-members. It is open every day.