ANDY Murray’s run to the semifinals at Wimbledon has sparked a bout of tennis-mania on courts across Bolton.

Coaches and organisers at local clubs are reporting a surge of interest in the sport among youngsters during the Wimbledon fortnight.

Although interest in the game usually increases at this time of year, the Murray factor has had a particular influence this summer.

Stephen Maslivec, chairman and junior coach at Barrow Bridge, said: “The national profile of the game has increased as a result of Murray’s performances, not just at Wimbledon, but also because he has reached three grand slam finals.

“There is often more interest in the game during the Wimbledon fortnight, but it also tails off quite quickly afterwards when newcomers to the game realise how difficult it is to play it well.

“The problem is that the top players, like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Murray have a habit of making the game look easy, but those of us who coach youngsters regularly know that it is not.”

Anthony Green, who coaches at Markland Hill Tennis Club, was recently overwhelmed by children wanting to try their hand at the game when he carried out a coaching session at a primary school.

“The only issue is that the key time for a child to learn tennis is between the ages of six and 10,” he said.

“If a child comes along as a beginner at the age of 10 and is then being thrashed by a kid two or three years younger who has been playing longer, they will soon lose interest.”

Green also said there was a need for LTA money for local clubs to help bring their youngsters on.

Chairman of Bolton Sports Federation Tennis League, Diane Hardman, who is a member at Markland Hill and Bury club Walmer, urged anyone who wants to play tennis to seek coaching.

“Our parks are full of kids trying to replicate what they see at Wimbledon,” he said. “But it takes a long time to master the basics of the game.

“Hopefully, the keen ones will join a local club and get started properly.

“It really is a wonderful game for meeting people. Most clubs run Saturday morning coaching sessions for children, and, in many cases, you don’t need a racket or balls – or even to be a member – to go along and try your hand at the game.”