FIREWORKS celebrated the big switch on of new floodlights at Widnes Tennis Academy.

Lane Tennis Club is among 148 sports projects to share £10 million of National Lottery funding from Sport England’s Inspired Facilities fund.

The club on Highfield Road received £50,000 to floodlight three outdoor tennis courts to help more people play tennis throughout the year.

With support from Halton Council’s sports development and Cheshire Lawn Tennis Associatioin, they have managed to floodlight all of their six outdoor courts.

Club chairman Neil Barber said: “We are delighted to have secured this investment which means we can now use our outdoor tennis courts through the dark winter nights.

“It allows us to run a winter league for teams across Cheshire and Merseyside.”

Halton MP Derek Twigg said: “This is great news and a boost to such an important sports facility that will now enable outdoor tennis to be played throughout the year.

“Congratulations to the Lane Tennis Club on their achievement and for the excellent facilities they provide for our community.”

Club membership has trebled since Widnes Tennis Academy opened in 2007.

A free cardio tennis session was held to celebrate the big switch on.

The floodlit courts are open to the public. To book call 0151 257 8317.