The Tennis Foundation today announced that Cramlington Community Tennis Programme (CCTP), one of the area's leading tennis park sites, has been awarded 'Beacon' status in recognition of their high quality, affordable community tennis programmes.

The Tennis Foundation today announced that Cramlington Community Tennis Programme (CCTP), one of the area's leading tennis park sites, has been awarded 'Beacon' status in recognition of their high quality, affordable community tennis programmes.

The announcement was made as the park was presented with their prestigious beacon plaque by the Tennis Foundation.

CCTP, which is based in Alexandra Park in Cramlington was selected by the Tennis Foundation for the accolade along with 31 other Beacon sites across the country. It is one of the first community sites to achieve the status, which recognises the best community-focused facilities, as part of AEGON Parks Tennis.

Sue Mappin, Executive Director of the Tennis Foundation, said: "We were delighted to recognise the excellent work the park is already doing by awarding them 'Beacon' status. To grow participation we need more quality public tennis facilities like this, offering the local community a fun, affordable tennis experience all year round. The Tennis Foundation is working in partnership with the Local Authority to develop community tennis, as part of its ongoing drive to enhance tennis opportunities.

"Through AEGON Parks Tennis, we are committed to improving access to tennis around the country - whether playing for fun or competing. Tennis is a fantastic lifelong sport and I strongly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to take part. Working with local tennis providers, this will make a real contribution to building healthier and safer communities, as well as ensuring that anyone wanting to pick up a racket can do so in a quality local environment."

To become a 'Beacon' site, all facilities must offer access to free tennis; plus quality, affordable coaching and regular competitions for all ages and abilities.

Nathan Rogerson, Leisure Development and Inclusion Manager at Blyth Valley Arts and Leisure added:

"Cramlington Community Tennis Programme provides a fantastic range of opportunities for lifelong participation in sport.  Being awarded beacon status is an excellent achievement and is testament to all the hard work and dedication of everyone involved with the programme."

AEGON Parks Tennis aims to increase community access to tennis in parks and communities nationwide. Led by the Tennis Foundation and supported by the LTA, AEGON Parks Tennis is a key programme in British tennis'drive to increase participation and grow tennis at all levels. The long-term aim is to have one beacon site acting as a centre of community tennis excellence in each of the 442 local authorities in Britain.

Pictured are Alex Lewis (Tennis Foundation), Phil Barron (Head Coach), Tom Kinloch (LTA Councillor and Main Board).