Over forty disadvantaged children from Kensington have been awarded medals and certificates of achievement by the mayor for taking part in a tennis camp in Holland Park.

Maighread Condon-Simmonds, Kensington and Chelsea’s mayor, presented the medals to the children, aged between four and 13, at Campden Hill Lawn Tennis Club, where the youngsters have been training for the last two weeks.

The event was organised by London charity, Solidarity Sports, and supported by Campden Hill Lawn Tennis Club, the Octavia Foundation and the Kensington and Chelsea Foundation as part of their Summer Sparks Initiative.

Founded in 2007, Solidarity Sports provides sporting opportunities to disadvantaged inner-city children so they can have fun whilst developing life skills such as confidence and social skills.

Findus, aged nine, said: “I have never played tennis before and the last two weeks have been brilliant, I have enjoyed every minute. I just want to know when I can come back and play again!”

Sean Mendez, founder and director of the charity added: “Tennis is often seen as a posh sport but it need not be. Our children have had an amazing two weeks and have learnt new skills that will be very valuable for their future. We have been made to feel very special by the superb facilities and friendly atmosphere of all the staff at Campden Hill Lawn Tennis Club. It’s been a memorable time for all our children and volunteers.”