ONE of Greenock's most celebrated sporting clubs is marking a milestone year by looking to net a flurry of new members.

Fort Matilda Tennis Club celebrated its 100th anniversary by opening up its Newark Street courts for a 'smashing' day of fun and competition.

President Mark McGrath and fellow members put on a special open day to commemorate the big birthday, as well as running a club tournament to mark the occasion.

With an ambitious youth programme in place and new state-of-the-art all weather courts now fully in play, club chiefs are looking forward to building on a century of success.

Mark, 28, said: "The tennis club is going from strength to strength. We have more teams than ever before competing.

"For the first time we have an under 16s girls team and I think that is really important.

"We are always looking at new ways to bring people into the club and have really great young coaches for them to work with."

Set in an idyllic location beside Greenock Wanderers and Fort Matilda Bowling Club, committee members are focused on making the game inclusive for all.

Mark, who works in risk management, added: "There is always lots of excitement around Wimbledon time but we want to show people that is it is an accessible sport for everyone, membership here is just £30 a year."

He organised the celebration day alongside Calum Roberts, 26, an Active Schools co-ordinator and former club head coach.

They were joined for our photo call by fellow Fort Matilda members, student Callum Price and Dylan Crawford, a deck officer in the Merchant Navy.

The 100th anniversary enjoyed a great turnout of players aged 15 to 80 who took part in the Jimmy Mitchell Tournament.

Tonino's provided pizzas on the day while Porchlight sent along cupcakes.

The club would also like to thank all those who donated raffle prizes, including Smiths of Greenock and the Chartroom at Kip Marina.

Mark added: "We are looking forward to a summer of action with the Greenock and District tournaments and the club championships to come. I'd urge anyone who was watched the stars at Wimbledon and felt inspired to get active to come along."

Photos: George Munro and Alex Craig