Young Speyside tennis enthusiasts have rallied from a setback after Andy Murray’s mother was forced to pull out of giving them expert coaching.
Judy Murray was scheduled to visit the courts at Rothes Tennis Club yesterday to pass on tips to the budding stars of the future.
Preparations were well-advanced for the VIP visit with a special cake purchased to welcome her to the club.
However, a summons to a public inquiry over a land dispute about a sports centre near Dunblane meant she was not able to attend.
Despite the blow, about 30 children took to the Rothes courts to learn skills from expert coach Kris Soutar.
Reece Davies, 10, said: “I was excited about Judy Murray coming. I was going to ask her how Andy was doing at the moment. It doesn’t matter though because there’s still good coaching on.”
Talented youngsters excitedly turned up at the clubhouse for the session and gazed admiringly at posters of stars such as Olympic and Wimbledon champion, Murray, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Mr Soutar was impressed by the talent on display at the club, which has recently clinched the under-10 league title for the north of Scotland.
The session was organised as part of the Tennis on the Road programme, which was devised by Mrs Murray.
Mr Soutar added: “These are the sorts of games she played with the boys [Andy and Jamie Murray] when they were growing up.
“They didn’t have much money at the time, so it’s perfect for teaching parents to play at home with their children.
“The profile of tennis is never going to be higher. Andy could win three or four more grand slams, but it won’t get any higher.
“We’ve got to capitalise on it and coming out to small places is perfect to build the enthusiasm.”
Rothes Tennis Club secretary Hamish McBain said: “Everybody has still had a great day and there’s been a fantastic turnout.
“Everybody had already signed up before there was any suggestion of Judy being here, so they were all keen in the first place.”
