Free tennis and pickleball courts for all this summer

Free tennis and pickleball return to Worcester for the summer holidays - with 385 hours of racket time available at two of the city's parks.

Residents will have access to four tennis courts and four pickleball courts at Cripplegate Park as well as two tennis courts at Gheluvelt Park.

Worcester City Council said the aim is to give people of all ages and abilities the chance to pick up a racket and get active, as it funds the initiative for a sixth year.

Councillor Jabbar Riaz said: "With Wimbledon inspiring people to play tennis across the country, now is the perfect time to give it a go."

He added: "We want to make it as easy as possible for residents to get active, spend time outdoors and make use of the excellent facilities available in the city.

"The response to the free sessions last year was outstanding, and we're delighted to be bringing them back for another summer."

The scheme is open to regular players and even those who have never picked up a racket before.

The courts can be booked on Wednesdays from 15 July to 12 August between 15:00 and 20:00 BST.

They can also be booked on Saturday and Sundays from 18 July to 16 August between 14:00 and 18:00 BST.

Booking online is mandatory, added the council.

Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.