THE Only Way is back to Essex for old friends Ryan Peniston and Eden Silva after their Wimbledon campaigns finished with a disappointing defeat in round one of the mixed doubles.

Peniston benefits from the LTA’s NTC Access Programme, which is for players ranked 100-200 in singles and 31-100 in doubles, providing cost-free access to courts on all three surfaces, coaching, sparring, trainers and the LTA’s tournament bonus scheme.

Peniston, 25, and Silva were defeated 6-4 6-2 on Court 9 by a familiar foe in compatriot Naomi Broady and her French partner Jeremy Chardy.

“Definitely when we saw the draw there was some banter flying about but when you step on the court you are all playing to win but I’m happy for Naomi,” said Wimbledon debutant Peniston who was playing in the mixed doubles for the first time.

“I thought it was a pretty fun experience especially playing with Eden, we’ve known each other for a long time, we’ve been good friends since we were young.

“Doing it at Wimbledon was fun but obviously we wanted to get the win – but it was a good effort from Jeremy and Naomi.

“They definitely served well, especially on the grass it makes a big difference getting that first big hit in.”

Peniston - who survived cancer as a child - partnered Liam Broady in the men’s doubles on Thursday but lost out to British brothers Neal and Ken Skupski on his very first appearance at SW19.

And despite two early defeats, the Great Wakering star is ‘hungry’ to return to the All England Club.

“In general, it has been a great experience, just being able to play I’m pretty grateful for the opportunity,” added Peniston, world No.480 in men’s doubles.

“It has given me more hunger to come back and play more.

“When you travel a lot you don’t get that much support but I’ve felt here there’s a lot of home support and everyone’s getting behind you whether it’s your friends or family or people you don’t know.

“It’s a nice environment for sure.”

Silva hinted the partnership is one tennis fans will see plenty more of going forward thanks to the duo’s chemistry.

“In doubles it’s really important to like the person that you are playing with, I think that’s big for me,” said the 25-year-old, who lost in the first round of the women’s doubles alongside Tara Moore.

“It makes the on-court chemistry a lot easier and if you enjoy yourself out there - you are going to play good tennis.

“Hopefully Ryan will have me again!”

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