AS the eyes of the sporting world turn to SW19 in London, Helensburgh Tennis Club is hoping to capitalise on Wimbledon fever by opening its doors to local residents with a range of activities.

The centrepiece of the action is an open day at the club’s Suffolk Street premises this weekend when people will be able to come along and enjoy the sport, and the club’s facilities, free of charge.

The open day, all day on Saturday, July 2, starts with a cardio tennis class at 9am, followed by a doubles tournament running from 10am to 12noon.

Throughout the day until 3pm, anyone can come along and enjoy free play with expert tips from the club’s coaching team – and with balls and rackets supplied by the club too.

There are coaching classes for red, orange, green and yellow balls juniors on Tuesday, July 5 and Thursday, July 7, starting at 4pm, 4.45pm and 5.15pm.

There are adult classes on the same two nights, with beginners at 6pm and improvers at 7pm.

On top of that there’s an adult cardio class at 6.30pm on Wednesday, July 6 and the club’s coach will be on hand to host the regular Helensburgh club night from 7pm on Wednesday, also open to everyone.

The club’s head coach, Alan MacBeath, said: ”We would love to welcome budding tennis players along to our open day on Saturday, July 2 and enjoy a day with us free of charge.

“We know many locals used to play when they were younger and gave up for a variety of reasons so it’s the perfect time to come back and enjoy tennis again.”

The club is also offering half-price membership for anyone who joins during the 14 days of Wimbledon.

For full details of how to book and class costs, see ‘Helensburgh Lawn Tennis Club’ on Facebook or email helensburghtennisclub@gmail.com.