Vandals force closure of revamped tennis courts

Vandals have forced the temporary closure of tennis courts after repeatedly targeting the site – just a year after it underwent a £70,000 refurbishment.

The courts, in Grovelands Park, West Molesey, had undergone a six-week resurfacing programme in June 2023.

Elmbridge Borough Council said the fence had been cut out, both nets had been torn and "jammed" into the posts' winding mechanism, while the court surface was also damaged.

A spokesperson said: "We always get an increased interest in tennis during Wimbledon, and it is a shame to have to close the courts at this time of the year.”

It means this is the second peak season in a row the courts have been out of use.

The site will remain closed while repairs are carried out, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The spokesperson said there had been "several" incidents of vandalism at the site since it reopened last year, but a recent incident had caused "extensive damage".

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.