After-school tennis club

And he should know - he started at age four himself and went on to become a member of the national squad for two years.

Now Richard wants to encourage future talent and has set up after-school sessions on Monday afternoon at Alexandra Park in Hastings and Tuesday afternoon at Egerton Park.

From 4-5pm he coaches Year 3 children, aged between 7/8, and from 5-6pm, Year 4/5 youngsters who are aged around 8/10.

The clubs are supported by Andy Hodder and Sandra Pamplin of Hastings Sports Partnership and are open to any children who want to have a go.

Richard said: "The sessions are aimed at children who want to try but don't always get the chance, and don't want the commitment of having to join a club yet. It is funded by the Sports Partnership which means it is an inexpensive way to start up - it costs just 2 per session.

"The sessions are structured but the emphasis is definitely on fun. If they move on to a club they can have more technical coaching, but this is about letting them have a go first, getting them to hit as many balls as they can."

He is now 25, but Richard himself started playing in Egerton Park at the age of four and went on to play at county level as a teenager. When he was 14 he become a member of the national squad but decided when he left school to concentrate on coaching.

"It has worked out really well - it's really good. I have had a couple of good mentors on the way which has helped a lot."

He now teaches at Bexhill and Hastings schools and is based at Laughton indoor centre which is near Ringmer.

With any questions about after-school clubs or to make bookings, contact Richard on 07525 172762, or email on wwwblt.vpweb.co.uk.