ANYONE for tennis? At Spytty's indoor tennis centre anyone aged from 18 months to 80 years can come along and try the sport, whether they are aiming to be the next Tim Henman, or hark back to the golden days when a British man last won Wimbledon. (It was Fred Perry, in 1936, just in case you were wondering.)

Charlie McLean, tennis development officer for Newport council, is responsible for performance and accreditation at the centre, as well as taking the odd coaching session.

"The Spytty centre is quite special in that it is the only centre in Wales that has a performance and accreditation club," said Charlie. "We run a complete performance and development programme seven days a week." Five-, six- and seven-week courses for both children and adults are held throughout the year, including mini-tennis for tots and special teen courses. There are currently 250 youngsters on the club's books.

Beginners or more casual players can come along to the centre's many Pay 'n' Play nights.

The aim of the centre, said Charlie McLean, is "to instill that tennis is a great and fun game and can be enjoyed in many ways, socially, recreationally, competitively and professionally. We want to make tennis truly accessible to all."

For youngsters the aim is to develop confidence, self-esteem and respect for others.

"It's a very popular sport that's growing in popularity," added Charlie. "We have a number of good young performance players who could be future champions."

For details on courses and prices call Charlie McLean on 01633 671803. Darren Evans