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Rothiemurchus and Aviemore Tennis Club netted a special guest player when Badenoch MSP Kate Forbes visited to check out progress on their new all-weather court.

The fantastic facility at the Inverdruie venue will hopefully be open in just a few weeks’ time. The polymeric playing surface will be laid in May time when the weather is warmer.

As well as a cuppa and a chat with club treasurer Yvonne Birnie and other members, Ms Forbes took to the court and enjoyed a bounce game at Inverdruie under the watchful eye of club coach Lauren Gunning.

The new £400,000 covered court will allow for play all year round, and will also be used by other sports groups in addition to local Scouts, Guides and playgroups and other community groups.

Ms Forbes said: “The new court looks amazing, and will hopefully weather-proof all future games at the club. I was delighted to meet members and talk about the progress that they’ve made over the last few years.

“There has been so much local support for the club and its achievement and it really feels like it’s a community endeavour.

“I met some of the women’s team players and had a good chat about the opportunities in the Highlands for tennis matches. It’s great to see young people coming up through the ranks too. It’s safe to say I won’t be entering Wimbledon this year, but I do hope to come back again and sharpen up my serves.”

The Holyrood politician was tight-lipped on the result of her bounce game.

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