An extra 5,000 places have been opened up on the Lawn Tennis Association’s (LTA) Tennis for Kids initiative due to popular demand.

The scheme had originally targeted 10,000 5-8 year-olds for the free six-week course – in which all participants completing their course would receive a free tennis racket – but the extra places were freed up after the initial allocation filled up in less than a week.

During an interview with Sports Management, LTA director of participation Alastair Marks said the programme was launched to capitalise on the success of Great Britain's victory in the Davis Cup.

LTA chief executive Michael Downey said the increase was to “maximise opportunities for the younger generation to play tennis”, adding: “We look forward to seeing more parents across the country sign their kids up and get involved in a sport that they can continue to enjoy throughout their lives”.

Former British number one Annabel Croft, who is one of the mentors for the 1,000 Level Two coaches taking part in the initiative, added: “As someone who has played tennis since I was a child, I know first-hand how brilliant the sport is, whether you choose to play competitively or socially – it’s something you can continue to enjoy throughout your life.”

To read Sports Management’s full interview with Alastair Marks, click here.