THE focus may well be on Wimbledon, but Teesside will serve up its own tennis feast on Saturday.

Brierton Community School, in Hartlepool, will host a PlayTennis For Free Come and Try It Day to encourage youngsters to take up the sport.

The event runs from 9.30am to 3pm and children can turn up at any time to join in the fun. Balls and rackets will be provided.

Tennis coaches will be on hand to pass on their expertise at the event, which is a joint initiative between the Lawn Tennis Association, Hartlepool Borough Council and Brierton Community School.

Paul Jackson, Hartlepool schools' sport partnership manager, said: "The free event is designed to introduce children to the game of tennis and, if they like the sport, we can signpost them to a local club.

"The day is open to children of all ages and it does not matter if they have no previous tennis experience."

Britain's number one player, Tim Henman, who is backing the campaign, said: "PlayTennis is a fantastic initiative which is now in its seventh year. It has encouraged over half-a-million people from all abilities to pick up the racket.

"Tennis can be played by anyone and is a fun way to get fit with friends."

For more information, contact Paul Jackson on (01429) 287506, or visit www.ltaplay tennis.com