Vandals have forced the closure of tennis courts after repeatedly targeting the site –  just a year after it underwent a £70,000 refurbishment.

The timing could not have been worse as the sport sees a surge of interest and playing numbers in July, when Wimbledon is in full swing.

The courts in Grovelands Park, West Molesey, had undergone a six-week resurfacing programme in June 2023. It is now the second peak season in a row they have been out of commission. 

An Elmbridge Borough Council spokesperson said: “Following vandalism to the Grovelands recreation ground tennis courts. We have made the decision to temporarily close the facilities while we work towards carrying out repairs and securing the site.

 “There have been several incidents of vandalism at this site since it was reopened last year after a £70,000 refurbishment programme but this time, there was extensive damage.

“The fence was cut out, both nets were torn and jammed into the posts’ winding mechanism and the court surface was damaged.

“The decision to temporarily close was not taken lightly as we know repairs and remedial measures will take time to put in place, but we want to make sure the site is completely safe for everybody before we open again.

“We know residents value these facilities and we are sorry for the inconvenience. We always get an increased interest in tennis during Wimbledon, and it is a shame to have to close the courts at this time of the year.”