Lord Mayor of Oxford Pat Stannard and keen young players demonstrate how to wield a racket at the launch of the city council's Play Tennis programme in Oxford's Florence Park on Monday, June 23.

Lord Mayor of Oxford Pat Stannard with young tennis players

A future Tim Henman, who will be started his bid for the coveted Wimbledon title on Tuesday, June 24, could be among those taking part in the scheme.

The programme, which is designed to encourage more people to take up the sport, will offer discounted coaching sessions throughout the summer at courts in Florence Park, Hinksey Park, Bury Knowle Park and Cutteslowe Park.

Play Tennis is run by the council's sports development unit -- call 0800 0521455.