WITH Andy Murray's retirement ever more imminent the search to find Scotland's next Grand Slam winner has already begun.

Tennis Borders hosted its second Junior Team Challenge last weekend in Galashiels.

And they were impressed by the standard of the 30 youngsters who were serving at the Queens Centre.

Invites for the open session had been sent to junior sections of all local clubs as well as through the Active Schools programmes in the Borders.

Although a few had been on court before most of the 30 had very little previous playing experience.

District Coach Jonny Adamson told us: "This team competition for kids aged nine and under was very popular and I am delighted that our numbers were even higher than our last event.

"Our aim is to promote tennis as a fun, social and beneficial sport for kids to take up and consider playing for life.

"They can represent their school or club and enjoy the game playing alongside their mates.

"I’d like to thank the coaches and parents for their input both on the day itself and in helping with the organisation. Having our clubs working closely together makes these events so successful.

"The noise and excitement during the day was certainly the proof of that."

Last week's Team Challenge involved a round robin doubles event and skills based team challenges.

The event is part of a series of initiatives being run by Tennis Borders to get more children aged 10 and under involved with and playing tennis.

Jonny added: "We have lots of different competitions and coaching camps being planned for this year, so there should be something for everyone."

ENDS.

Notes to Editors: The next events being planned are an Open Coaching Day on the 3rd February at the Queens Centre and a Primary Schools Competition at Earlston High School on the 22ndFebruary. For more information, please contact Jonny Adamson on jon.adamson92@btinternet.com