ONE of the first purpose built Padel Tennis courts in the country held a private launch for VIPs in Southend at the weekend.

Padel4All in Southend's Garon Park welcomed Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Essex Jennifer Tolhurst, James Duddridge Tory MP for Rochford and Southend East, and councillors Carole Mulroney, Alex Bright, Dan Nelson and deputy mayor Kevin Robinson.

Guests watched games from the GB teams and families invited to try their hand at this relatively new game to hit the UK.

There are four courts being built in Garon Park, with three under cover and a fourth – known as the show court- is open air.

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A new café has opened at the facility, kitted out with toilets, a reception and viewing area.

Sam Jakes- Manager of Padel4all said: "Saturday was spectacular from start to finish, Dan Compton, head of sports at Cecil Jones High School and students were superstars ad all played the family event with gratitude and enthusiasm.

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"GB star Sandy Farquharson and whole GB team put on a fantastic exhibition for us and Toby Bawden’s superb commentary made it a real spectacle for all of our guests- a big thank you tto everyone that attended the launch event and we hope that this has put padel at the forefront of peoples’ minds when it comes to fun, competitive and social sport in Southend on Sea’ James Duddridge MP also welcomed the new sporting facility.

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He said: “It was great to see Padel tennis and the inspirational demonstration match at the new Garon Park this Saturday. I tried my hand at the game with the Deputy Mayor. With the sport being played in over 50 countries we are well place to host international tournaments, particularly when London Southend Airport is back in full post covid glory.

"I have even challenged the Deputy Mayor to organise a Conservative Vs Labour match next year as a charity fund raiser. Do not tell anyone but I am going to start practicing."