JUST weeks ahead of Wimbledon, Skipton Tennis Centre is welcoming top tennis coach, Jamie Kirkman, to its Sandyland’s premises.

From this Friday to Monday, members and non-members can book to be coached by Kirkham, who will also be conducting mini, junior and adult coaching sessions throughout the weekend.

The acclaimed coach, who was once recognised as one of the best coaches in the world, will also get to enjoy watching the league doubles matches, which are being hosted at the club and will see players from across the region compete.

In support of Kirkman’s visit, Skipton Tennis Centre’s friends from Alexander’s Bar and Kitchen will be on site with their mobile gin and Pimms bar, which will adopt a special ‘Tropical White Party’ theme in honour of the traditional ‘all white’ tennis attire.

Adam Cox, director of Tennis at Skipton Tennis Centre, said: “It is very exciting for us to secure Jamie for the weekend. He is extremely passionate and knowledgeable about tennis and it shows the progress the club is making in its ability to stay innovative and creative for all of its users.

“Jamie has coached some of the best and was even headhunted from Australia for a position at the IMG Academy in Florida, which has coached stars such as the Williams sisters, André Agassi and Pete Sampras.

“The summer social courtesy of Alexander’s will start at 5pm, adding a brand new dimension to the evening’s events and we hope that members and non-members will drop in to enjoy a drink in the club’s relaxed surroundings.”

Skipton Tennis Centre, awarded the LTA Club of the Year title at last year’s Wimbledon finals, is open all year round and runs over 30 group coaching sessions a week for all age groups and abilities, as well as an extensive school coaching programme.

For further information, visit skiptontennis.com or alexanders-skipton.com