Ripley and Alfreton Tennis Club has appointed a new coach and launched a junior coaching programme this week.

Phil Saddler, a Level 3 accredited coach, has been coaching since 2012.

He recently signed a contract with the club to run and develop a coaching programme for adults and juniors. He will also provide one-to-one coaching on request.

A statement on the club’s website said: “The committee will be working closely with Phil as the new coaching programme is put together. Phil will also be supporting with our coaching work for young people with SEND which we have received grant funding to deliver.

“The club is delighted that Phil has joined us and we are excited to see our coaching offer develop over the coming months. Developing the club’s coaching provision is a key strand of the club’s five-year strategic development plan and this contract will help to further develop the club.”

Junior coaching began yesterday (Thursday, June 18). Groups are currently limited to five people, plus Phil.

For more information, email info@ripleyalfretontennis.org.uk.