IT is an exciting time for Newport’s Stow Park Lawn Tennis Club – and not just because Wimbledon fever has seen increased numbers of players dusting off their rackets.

Despite being the third oldest club in Wales, Stow Park shows no sign of slowing with member numbers up.

And in the coming weeks, following a fundraising campaign which has taken more than three years, the club’s six tennis courts are being replaced.

But it’s not before time, explains Colin Lovett, chairman of the tennis club, on Woodville Road.

“These courts have been here for 22 years and they were meant to last 12,” he said.

“Times are hard and we have been strapped for cash but we have managed to raise the money, through functions and also the generosity of some members.

“We also received a large-ish loan from the Lawn Tennis Association.”

The courts have been in need of lots of repairs – some of which have been carried out by Mr Lovett himself to try and save money.

The work to replace the six courts – three artificial turf and three tarmac – like for like will begin this month and it is hoped to be finished by the middle of September.

Mr Lovett, who has been chairman at the club for three years, said it is no myth that tennis becomes more popular over the two summer weeks every year when Wimbledon is on.

“Most times of the year it’s not too bad to get on a court,” he said. “But at Wimbledon time it does get difficult to find some court space.”

Mr Lovett’s son, Chris, who is a tennis coach at the club, said: “Over the Wimbledon fortnight there is certainly a lot more interest in tennis, particularly when the weather is nice.

“It's very important in getting a buzz about tennis and growing the game in the UK.”

The club, which started back in 1887 – making it 130 years old next year, has around 450 current members and over 200 of them are juniors.

Chairman Mr Lovett said: “Members have increased really and we are in quite a good place – although there’s always room for a few more.”

Speaking to Mr Lovett and hearing about the sheer number of members, it is apparent the club is welcoming to all and does not discriminate on anything including age and ability.

The club has players aged from three years old – some of whom are pictured in the tots class run on Friday – right up to an incredible 86-year-old player. It is clearly a sport which spans generations.

“Tennis is accessible for all ages,” coach Chris Lovett said. “Some are still learning the game in their late 60s.”

He added: “Anyone can learn tennis. We have a progressive court sizes for young beginners. As they progress, they can gradually move on to larger courts.”

There are lots of new initiatives for newcomers, he explains. “We run Cardio Tennis, a fitness based session where players do drills to music.”

But what makes a good tennis player?

“All good tennis players need a great attitudes, to be very strong mentally,” Mr Lovett tells the Argus. “Moving well and good coordination are also important skills.

“But tennis is a great game to get into.

“It's usually played outdoor so you can get some sunshine and fresh air, it's non-contact so lower risk of injury, it can be played by young and old and is a great opportunity to socialise with friends whilst staying fit and healthy.”

While tennis is often considered an individual sport – at the end of the day it is just one person behind the net against their opponent – the coach says they see it more as a team game.

“We see it more as a team game,” Mr Lovett said.

“Players need friends to practice with, coaches to help develop their game and of course the support of their family.

“Team games are quite common in tennis too, with doubles featuring quite highly.”

Mr Lovett, who said he got “hooked” when he was young after his dad enjoyed the game and played at the club, started out at sponge ball sessions run by a local coach. Later he started volunteering and running coaching sessions, before becoming a qualified coach and doing it full time.

He speaks of the “family feel” that the club has.

“Playing is a real stress buster and it's a great workout without feeling you are exercising,” he said.

It is clear the club, with its long history and large circle of members, is a very welcoming family for many.

For more information about the club or to join, please visit facebook.com/StowParkLawnTennisClub