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A free tennis scheme aiming to bring together youngsters from Rhymney – and boost health and fitness – attracted more than 90 children over the summer holidays.

As part of its ‘Respect Rhymney’ programme, Gwent Police officers based in the north of the borough teamed-up with council officers to run the summer tennis scheme.

‘In the right court’ ran each Monday at Rhymney Tennis Courts.

Inspector Lysha Thompson said: “In the first week alone we saw over 30 children, aged between three and 12, coming down to the courts in Rhymney to meet officers.

“We’re all thrilled that so many young people were able to enjoy themselves over the 14-week initiative, but also learn a bit about their community and give back to the village.”

She continued: “It provided us with a great opportunity to meet the children and their guardians, and, as well as all the tennis on show, strike up a conversation around how our behaviour and actions can impact where we live – both positively and negatively.

“Thank you to everyone who played a part over the summer. We’re now working hard to secure funding to make it an annual fixture in Rhymney – something all participants were demanding by the final session.”

Gwent Police also launched a Hyrox fitness scheme in Ystrad Mynach over the summer, while a family emergency services day is being held at Rhymney Youth Club on October 4.