A GRASSROOTS tennis player faced a former British number one on court last week after winning a competition.

Martin Home, of Glebe Road, Letchworth GC, took on four-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Tim Henman on Friday in a doubles match at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

The 61-year-old had the chance to team up with former top 10 player Peter McNamara after winning the AEGON Masters competition alongside Corin Superfine from Harpenden, who partnered Henman on the other side of the net.

Martin, who has served as captain and committee chairman at Letchworth Tennis Club, took up the sport seriously in his late 30s after a back injury stopped him playing his first love, rugby.

“The day was absolutely brilliant, I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience,” said Martin, who is also a qualified coach.

“Tim and Peter were really great. They played a controlled game and involved us in the game to make it a really enjoyable match with some good banter between points. Even though we lost 7-6, it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience.”

Henman said: “Martin came to tennis after being injured in rugby and now he coaches other people which is great. He has a great spirit to get up there and make things happen. Both players today are great role models for British tennis and good tennis players.”

Court doubles partner McNamara added: “The standard of tennis from both players was good and it was lots of fun. Corin and Martin are very inspirational for all of us. Martin coaches older people who come to play from beginners which is fantastic. I believe you can be 60 years old and still pick up a racket and give it a try.”