One of tennis’ most celebrated coaches has offered to help develop the next generation of talent in Moray.
Judy Murray described the announcement of planning permission for indoor courts in Elgin as “great news” for the area.
It is hoped the facility, which will be at the new and still under construction Moray Sports Centre, will become a regional centre for the sport to cover Moray and the Highlands.
The tennis extension to the complex will have four indoor courts which will remain accessible to players through the winter.
Building the facility remains dependent on the project gaining funding from the Transforming Scottish Indoor Tennis fund – which is supported by Tennis Scotland, Sport Scotland and the Lawn Tennis Association.
And the team received a massive boost yesterday with the offer of support from Mrs Murray – who has nurtured sons Andy and Jamie to grand slam successes.
She said: “At last an indoor pay and play tennis centre in the Highlands. Happy to help building a coaching workforce to drive activity in the local area.”
Kathryn Evans, chief executive of Moray Sports Centre, explained that Mrs Murray’s interest in the project had given the team a boost.
She said: “It’s fantastic to have somebody like that aware of our progress and taking an interest in it.”
Construction on the first phase of the sports centre, which will include the main games hall as well as a gym and cafe, is expected to finish next year.