BRITISH tennis star Tim Tiger' Henman visited Ulverston Indoor Tennis Centre and personally gave advice to aspiring young players. It was part of a project aimed at boosting the sport among schoolchildren.

More than 100 young tennis hopefuls in Cumbria received advice and expertise as part of the Serving Tennis to Schools Scheme'.

The scheme provides secondary, special needs and primary schools with equipment and taster sessions. The project gives participating schools equipment bags, in-service teacher training, coach visits as well as information on where they can play tennis at local clubs and centres.

Henman said: "This is vital for the game's future and it's great to see these children enjoying tennis. There is no doubt that schemes of this type will enable Britain to find the tennis star of tomorrow, and I am thrilled to be able to see all the children here taking a real interest in the game."

Paul Fowler from car dealer PV Dobson Jaguar in Lakeland who support the scheme organised by Cumbria Tennis added: "Having Tim here is terrific for these children, who have only recently got to try the game of tennis themselves.

"To meet and get some guidance from their sporting idol is marvellous and I am sure will motivate them and perhaps their friends to think about playing tennis on a regular basis."