POTENTIAL tennis stars of the future got the chance to show off their skills for a royal visitor at the opening of a new centre to encourage participation in the sport.

There were plenty of smoked salmon sandwiches, followed by strawberries and cream, after guests were shown around the Ulverston facility

The Mail, on Wednesday, May 15 in 2002, noted: "The Duchess of Gloucester scored an ace with children and adults during her visit to Ulverston's new tennis centre yesterday.

"Around 200 children from Croftlands School welcomed her at the £1.5m complex in Priory Road.

"She admired their home-made flags and met children who had received coaching at the centre.

"The duchess was presented with a bouquet of flowers by Leah Wright, seven, and Daniel Crabtree, six, who both took part in the mini tennis programme.

"She was welcomed to the complex by the new mayor of Ulverston, Dave Miller, South Lakeland District Council's cultural and tourism services manager Jim Walker, director of amenities and development Martin Jayne and leisure manager Colin Hewson.

"Also present were Cumbria Lawn Tennis Association president Tony Hesmondhalgh and vice chairwoman of the Indoor Tennis Initiative committee Sheila Hamilton.

"Youngsters and senior citizens gave the duchess a demonstration of tennis before she officially opened the centre by unveiling a commemorative plaque.

"Cllr Roger Bingham, the South Lakeland District Council chairman, said the centre was used by 300 children a week.

"Two youngsters have already been picked for the national squad and eight play for the county.

"The duchess said it was marvellous meeting so many people enjoying themselves.

"She spoke to trainees from the Lake District Training Academy who prepared an afternoon tea of smoked salmon, strawberries and clotted cream, scones and Pimms."

Among experts giving their advice to youngsters at the new centre was Andrew Wilson, the county performance officer for Cumbria Lawn Tennis Association and Bruce Lawson, the association's county development officer.

The Duchess was able to watch part of a demonstration tennis game featuring Ross Crawford, aged 11, of Barrow and David Smith, 10,  of Kendal.