People lined up for photo

Let's make a racquet: Valentines Park wins top tennis award

Published: 24 January 2024

Valentines Park in Redbridge has won a top accolade at the prestigious Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) Awards 2024.

 

Valentines Park scooped the Park Venue of the Year Award in recognition of its outstanding contributions to the world of tennis and dedication to fostering a vibrant and inclusive tennis community. 

 

The LTA Tennis Awards celebrate the accomplishments of various individuals, clubs, and venues that have made significant progress in promoting and developing tennis across Britain. 

 

Valentines Park's award as Park Venue of the Year reaffirms its status as a fantastic hub for tennis enthusiasts and a beacon of sporting excellence. Last year, Valentines Park was part of a £600k renovation programme of tennis facilities in Redbridge Parks, thanks to funding from Redbridge Council, Vision Redbridge Culture & Leisure, the UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation. 

 

The brand-new state-of-the-art tennis facilities have attracted many new players and boosted community engagement initiatives and coaching development programmes.

 

The Deputy Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Kam Rai, said: "Redbridge is home to some of the best parks and green spaces in the country, and we're working with partners to protect and improve these vital spaces now and for generations to come. 

 

"It's fantastic news that Valentines Park has won this prestigious award. With our partners, we've funded significant improvements to facilities across the borough to ensure local people can enjoy a game of tennis with family and friends. We need your help to take care of our courts so that everyone can enjoy them, please treat them with care.”

 

Chair of Vision Trustees Martin Solder said:  On behalf of Vision RCL, we are celebrating the news and recognising the positive impact providing a high-quality tennis experience for the community at Valentines Park has had on the local tennis scene. This award serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff, pride in our parks and reflection on the thriving tennis culture cultivated in Essex County."

 

As Park Venue of the Year, Valentines Park joins an esteemed list of tennis facilities recognised for their excellence in promoting and advancing the sport. 

 

To find out more about tennis in Redbridge Parks, visit the Redbridge Parks Tennis website: