Judy serves an ace at Irvine Bay

Leading tennis coach Judy Murray and Irvine Bay Regeneration Company have combined to serve what they hope will be a sporting and community ace for the people of Saltcoats.

Judy – mother of world tennis number 3 Andy Murray – has given her backing to promote the need to resurface community tennis courts in the town. The regeneration company has pledged to meet £50,000 if they can raise the remainder of the £80,000 costs.

Patrick Wiggins, Chief Executive or Irvine Bay Regeneration Company, said: “The total cost will be almost £80,000 and we have said we will pay £50,000 of that. The community is seeking to raise the remainder, and Judy’s support in raising the profile of their efforts will be very helpful.

“We are committed to doing our bit to help revitalise the communities in this fantastic part of Scotland.”

Judy Murray was helping to promote the work of the local steering group, The Glebe Tennis Association, which hopes to raise the remaining £26,000 to fix the courts, which are in a state of disrepair.

When the courts are resurfaced the facility will be open free of charge for everyone in the community to promote healthy living and increase tennis participation among local youngsters.

Judy said: “I wanted to help because I believe everyone has the right to play sport and because these tennis courts are in such a bad way, the local community is missing.

“I believe having community courts which are open to everyone could help raise the spirit in the area and also give individuals the chance to take part in a sport which is thriving in Scotland at the moment.

“You never know, we may unearth a hidden jewel once the courts are resurfaced and have the next British tennis star hailing from Saltcoats.”

Alison Farrer, Chairperson of The Glebe Association, added: “The Glebe Tennis Association were delighted when Judy contacted us and offered to come and take some local children for a coaching session. I am sure her presence has raised the profile of our campaign to help secure the additional funding we need to turn these courts into all weather surface.

“We have had a very positive response from the community and I would place on record our thanks for the good support received from Irvine Bay Regeneration Company, the local authority and Friends for the Plantation.”