The mood and weather from Andy Murray’s Wimbledon win carried over to the Essex coast yesterday as players turned out for Frinton Lawn Tennis Club’s veterans tournament.

Over 170 competitors were registered to take part in the event, which runs until Saturday and includes age groups from 35+ right up to the over 80s.

The international tournament is grade three ranked and attracts players from as far afield as Russia, America and New Zealand.

Tournament referee Chris Matthews said: “We like to try and get everyone at least two games if they want them.

“Even when people get knocked out early on we have a consolation event which they can play in.

“And where there aren’t enough players for a knockout competition they can either play down an age group or we set up a round robin event.”

Some of the local interest included club president Martin Tinsley playing in the 50+ age category.

Unfortunately his first opponent was seventh seed Andrew Bird, who beat him in straight sets 6-1, 6-0.

Another club member, Barry Todd, won his opening match 6-4, 7-5 against fourth seed Robin Mayes to reach the over 70s quarter finals.

Also going through was Colin Minter who has previously represented Great Britain at over 55s level. He beat Martin Prowse 6-0, 6-3 in the 60+ category to set up a quarter final clash with second seed Dennis Maddern.

On the ladies side there was a North Essex derby between Frinton member Mary Beasley and Jenny King from Colchester. Over 40s second seed King triumphed 6-3, 6-2.

Also in action from Frinton was Jill Crown against top seed Elivira Olbrich, who retired with injury in the third set.

The singles matches continue today with the doubles competitions starting on Wednesday.

All finals will take place on the last day of the tournament this Saturday. Any spectators wanting to watch the finals can do so free of charge.