As anticipation escalates ahead of the 2016 Wimbledon championships, running 27th June – 10th July, Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council prepares for a grand slam of its own.
With the development of a tennis themed events programme, intended to encourage locals in the surrounding areas to get active amid family-friendly activities, Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council will transform Market Square into a hub for Wimbledon and tennis enthusiasts alike.
Following the official draw taking place on 24th June, the first contest of the 2016 Wimbledon championships will get under way on 27th June with local sports group Tennis Fundamentals showcasing the rip-roaring ins-and-outs of the sport which impassions so many with public demonstrations in Market Square.
Artificial grass and inflatable nets will convert the space into Lisburn’s own Tennis Club but without the strict dress codes of the official Wimbledon championships! However, one tradition Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council will stay true to is the indulgence of strawberries and cream – available on select days during the tournament.
Market Square will welcome Downshire Tennis on 1st July, then Lisburn Racquets on 8th July, who will be on hand to demonstrate the fundamentals of the sport with ample opportunities to get involved and learn the basics.
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council will also be introducing a big screen to the Market Square area of the City Centre. Aimed at allowing locals to sit back, relax and watch Wimbledon live so they don’t miss any of the nail-biting moments as the tournament unfolds.
Cllr. Uel Mackin, Chairman of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Development Committee says: “Event programmes like our upcoming Wimbledon festivities are a real focus for showcasing the best of what Lisburn has to offer for all residents. Lisburn City Centre, in particular Market Square, has experienced significant revitalisation recently and established itself as the place to be for locals in the Lisburn and Castlereagh areas. We hope to engage as many people as possible and who knows, we might even discover our own local tennis sensation!”
For more information, call Sophie McAuley on 028 9244 7543 or email sophie.mcauley@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk