TENNIS courts in Girvan are set to undergo a range of upgrades to improve playing conditions, thanks to £30,000 of funding from the Lawn Tennis Association.

Works are due to begin on Monday, October 7 and will include new nets and posts, pea-shingle drainage holes, a new overlay on the court surface, and the installation of gate access technology which will provide the opportunity for online booking in the future.

The courts will also be painted and treated to ensure the surface is preserved.

The courts will be closed to the public for the duration of the works, which are due to end on November 4.

The project is part of a £30 million nationwide investment by the UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation.

Councillor Brian Connolly, South Ayrshire Council's portfolio holder for sport and leisure, said: “This is great news for the local community.

"The refurbishment demonstrates our commitment to providing a range of opportunities for children and adults to be active, helping to improve physical and mental health across the area.

"The addition of the electronic gate and online booking system will also ensure the courts are far more accessible to everyone.”

Scott Lloyd, LTA chief executive, said: “Park tennis courts are vital for providing people with opportunities to pick up a racket, and we want as many people as possible, of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, to enjoy playing tennis and being active.

"Thanks to this investment, the sport will be opened up to more players, for years to come.”