Former British tennis player and TV commentator Mark Petchey joined his sister to open a tennis court that recognises the years of service their parents gave to a club in Chingford.

The Petchey Court pays tribute to the considerable contributions Rod and Avril Petchey made to The Connaught Club.

Their children, Mark and Caroline, opened the court and unveiled a memorial plaque on the patio.

Mark, who previously coached Andy Murray, and his sister both paid moving tributes to their parents.

In his address, club president Graham Murray also underlined the importance of the role played by Rod and Avril over more than 50 years and highlighted their contribution to the development of many junior players who moved on to greater successes.

The inscription on the plaque reads: “In grateful appreciation for your many years of service given to the club as loyal members. Departed yet not forgotten. Your memory lives on in every aspect of past club development.”

Mark and Caroline also played an exhibition game against James and Daniel, Caroline’s sons, at the occasion which was attended by around 70 people.