A CAMPAIGN has been launched to raise £20,000 to restore the tennis courts at Droitwich Spa Lido.

Elaine Newman, who lives in Droitwich, has kick-started the drive to bring the old tennis courts back to life for residents to use this year.

Tennis has been played in the park since the 1920's but in recent years the surface has started to deteriorate, causing a drop in the number of people using the courts.

The mum-of-two said: "The courts have seen better days and are in great need of rejuvenation.

"Wouldn't it be amazing to have some of the best courts in the area right on your door step to use whenever you wanted to for free?"

The campaign is already well underway, with Wychavon District Council pledging 50 per cent of the cost already.

But fundraisers still need to find £20,000 towards the overall £40,000 cost to resurface all of the courts, providing a facility for years to come.

"It's absolutely fantastic that Wychavon have got behind this so emphatically," said Miss Newman. "I cannot thank them enough for their support."

Lynn Stevens, senior parks and greenspace officer at Wychavon, said: "We are aware that the tennis courts are in need of investment, but we have to prioritise our budgets over all the parks in the district and we’ve given preference to play areas, parks general areas such as paths and the leisure centre at this time.

"However, we’re really pleased that Elaine has decided to fundraise and if she can raise half of the money needed we should be able to restore the tennis courts to their former glory."

To learn more about the campaign, visit facebook.com/Lets-Play-Tennis-In-Droitwich-Spa-Lido-Park-1107072969350077/?fref=ts

And to make a donation visit crowdfunding.justgiving.com/Droitwich-tennis-courts