Derby Big Screen Set To Net Tennis Fans (July 2009).

Tennis fans in Derby could be watching Andy Murray going for glory at Wimbledon on the BBC Big Screen this weekend. The University of Derby is hosting a tennis themed family day on Sunday 5 July, which is part of a season of summer events being held in the Market Place in Derby. The day's fun starts at 12noon.

Budding tennis stars will be able to practice their shots on mini-tennis courts and learn some new skills during the day as the Market Place is transformed into a Wimbledon style arena. Little Eaton Tennis Club is providing racquets and balls and there'll be a number of other activities including a giant, inflatable 'Shoot 4 Goal' target practice game. Those who fancy trying out their skills in cyberspace will be able to play sports inspired computer games on the BBC Big Screen including 'Shoo the Bunny' and a Paralympic racetrack game.

Tara Silverman, Manager for Dome Event Management at the University of Derby, said: "We're hoping that Derby's Market Place will put 'Murray Mound' to shame as we welcome people to join the fun, learn more about tennis, watch the final and get involved in sports and fitness. "This is a great opportunity for people to learn more about what we do at the University and for us to give students on our Events Management degree courses the opportunity to work a high profile event in the city centre."

The Adidas tour team will be there exhibiting the latest technologies in sportswear and equipment. Members of the public will be invited to try out running shoes and take part in challenges to test their sporting abilities.

There will be a chance to try Batak - which measures a person's ability to see, process and react to visual information quickly - and the curiously named Krank Cycle - a hand powered cycle trainer which assesses upper body strength and power.

The Wimbledon men's singles final is due to start at 1.30pm (Sunday) when the nation will hopefully be gathering in anticipation of Scottish tennis star Andy Murray taking the trophy, which hasn't been won by a British player in 73 years. Fred Perry was the last British tennis player to take the title of Men's Singles Champion in 1936.

The University is providing around 60 temporary seats in the Market Place which will be available on a first come first served basis. Anyone wishing to attend is welcome to bring their own picnic seating.

Audiences can also bring a picnic; and a number of restaurants, coffee shops and bars located around the Market Place will be open for refreshments. Santanda bar in the Market Place is supporting the Wimbledon theme with a special 'strawberries and cream' offer, and a Pimms and lemonade offer for those who want something a little stronger.

This is an outdoor event, so people should dress appropriately for the anticipated weather conditions.