PERSHORE Tennis Centre has aced the start of the year by donating almost £300 to charities through its annual Mulled Wine Tournament.

The event, which took place on Saturday, January 7, saw 24 players competing against each other in two groups.

The top scoring female from each group played against the top scoring man from the opposite group in the final.

Holly Cook and Simon Hardaker were the overall winners, beating Pamela Collins and Niall O'Loghlen in a closely fought match.

And for all their hard work the club members raised £185 for Leukaemia Care, £68 for Acorns Children's Hospice and were treated to mulled wine and food afterwards.

Mr O'Loghlen said: "Thank you all for organising such a fun afternoon and raising funds for a charity close to my heart."

The tournament comes just months after the club raised £1,000 for Children in Need and £68 for Acorns with their Junior Christmas Party in December.

A spokesman for the club is optimistic for the sport's future in Pershore, emphasising what a "fantastic facility" the town has to offer.

"Pershore Tennis Centre aims to encourage more people playing tennis through offering free opportunities to play," said the spokesman.

"Opportunities are provided for all age groups from children to 'super vets' (over-60s) and I would encourage everyone to pick up a racket and have a go."

The facility boasts year-round tennis, with five outdoor courts, three indoor courts, professional coaches, county and regional players, holiday camps and disability tennis.

To give the sport a try or find out about upcoming events and sessions, visit Pershore Tennis Centre, call 01386 556677, or head to pershoretennis.co.uk.