TENNIS courts at Five Acres, Berry Hill, and Whitecross leisure centre, Lydney, are among more than 5,000 throughout Britain to be opened to the public, free of charge, this week as part of Play Tennis 99, Britain's largest annual promotion of the sport.
Organised by The Lawn Tennis Association, the idea is to give people of all ages and abilities the chance to enjoy the game in a relaxed atmosphere with professional coaches on hand to offer advice and encouragement.
This year's promotion will include special themed days for groups such as juniors, adults, families and those over the age of 50.
Chris Davis at The Forest Community Tennis Partnership said: "It is a great opportunity for young players throughout the area, who have never played tennis before, to try the sport for free and check out the local facilities.
"Thousands of people, who have been inspired by the success of Tim Henman, Greg Rusedski and Sam Smith are taking up tennis in Britain. With a promotion such as this who knows, there could be a youngster who comes along to a session who could end up as a future champion."
For further details of local Play Tennis 99 opportunities, contact Iona at Five Acres Leisure Centre.
•Dene Magna School, Mitcheldean, is promoting links with Longhope Tennis Club and attempting to develop tennis in the local community.
As part of the school's attempt to bring the game to members of the community and introduce the sport to youngsters at an early age, the school is holding a number of events.
There was a day of coaching last Sunday and daily tennis events for all students.
In addition, all lessons will follow a tennis theme and there will be junior and senior open competitions for boys and girls with finals to be held at Longhope Tennis Club on Saturday.
One of the highlights of the week will be coaching for Year 7 students with an LTA professional.
Students will be looking forward to the 'Beat the Teacher' opportunity this Friday.