HE may be out of Wimbledon, but Tim Henman's gripping antics on Centre Court have sparked a wave of enthusiasm for tennis amongst youngsters in Worcestershire.

Tennis clubs have already reported a rise in members this summer.

And Worcester office worker Caroline Smith, queued for 24 hours, from 9am on Tuesday, to ensure she gained a ringside seat during Henman's semi-final match.

Until yesterday's semi-final defeat against the 20-year-old Croatian Mario Ancic, pupils from Droitwich High School - which has specialist sports status - have been gripped by Henmania.

And they said that although most matches took place when they were in class, they said they usually found ways to keep up to date with the score!

Not even Henman's disappointing 7-6, 6-4, 6-2 defeat against the unseeded Croat could drain their enthusiasm.

"I'd love to go and watch him play one day," said keen player Chris Duggan, 15. "There's a great atmosphere at Wimbledon."

Tennis clubs in the area have also reported that club membership levels increased sharply as Wimbledon began.

David Rose, membership secretary for the Worcester Lawn Tennis Club, said: "There has been a significant increase, and we have particularly seen more children joining us.

"Tim Henman's success has definitely had an effect.

"Last year around 50 youngsters signed up last summer, and it was great to see groups of 13 or 14 year old boys joining together. The holidays run for a long time - their parents like to see them kept occupied and our courts are well-kept."

As to whether any Worcestershire youngsters looked likely to follow in Tiger Tim's footsteps, Mr Rose was doubtful.

"None of them look like they will go professional at the moment," he admitted. "But we are hoping to be considered for Performance Club status by the Lawn Tennis Association which will bring in more money for coaching."

Membership for youngsters at the Northwick club costs £40 for use of the courts for a full year from April, and there is a discount for those who sign up in the middle of the year.

Disappointed fans can also practice their game at the municipal tennis courts in Cripplegate Park at the cost of £4.50 for adults and £2.25 for under 16's.

This price covers the use of a court for an hour and courts do not need to be booked in advance.