Former Wimbledon line judge Alex Thornton visited the Upper Lane school to talk to the youngsters about the game and teach them some basic ball skills.

Alex, who works as junior co-ordinator at Batley Sports and Tennis Centre, was one of four people from a group of 50 to be chosen to judge at the international tournament a few years ago.

He said: "I was at Wimbledon for two years, and it was an unbelievable experience, like being in a different world.

"It's a completely different atmosphere than you would expect."

Although he's not been on Centre Court, Alex has seen a number of stars play, including Britain's Andy Murray.

And the youngsters were interested to hear his tales from the courts.

Alex said: "I went to the school wearing one of my uniforms and the children understood what it meant.

"I then taught them about using backhand and forehand, and how to volley, and at the end they were treated to a match by my colleagues. I think they loved it."

The sports centre are holding tennis summer camps for children from July 28-August 29. Junior camp, eight to 16, is at 10am-4pm everyday at £13 a day, and mini camp, four to eight, is at 10am-1pm at £8 a day.

For more information contact the Windmill Lane centre on 01924 326181.