Gosport is set to get its first outdoor pickleball courts.

Gosport Borough Council has started work to transform the old courts at Privett Park into two purpose-built pickleball courts and four renovated tennis courts.

This is part of the council's £1 million investment in sports and leisure across the borough for this year.

Once completed, the Gosport courts are expected to be the first purpose-built, free-to-use public outdoor pickleball courts on the south coast.

Pickleball is a sport that is gaining popularity in the UK due to its simplicity and suitability for all ages and abilities.

It is played by two to four players on a badminton-sized hardcourt using paddles to hit a ball over a tennis net.

The sport has been gaining traction in Gosport, with the Gosport Pickleball Club starting during the Covid pandemic and now boasting more than 90 members aged between 20 and over 80, including wheelchair users.

Ian Kingsbury from Gosport Pickleball Club said: "There are exciting days ahead for the people of Gosport who already play the fast-growing and fun sport of pickleball.

"Now, thanks to Gosport Borough Council's belief, commitment, and enthusiasm, many more residents, young and old, will be able to try this fun sport for free."

The outdated tennis courts are being transformed into four full-size, asphalt double tennis courts, and two asphalt pickleball courts.

There will be new nets and posts for all courts, and the pickleball courts will be separated by new fencing.

The renovation will also include ramps with handrails at each entrance for easy access.

Construction has started and the new courts are expected to be ready for the community to use this summer.

Gosport Borough Council leader, Councillor Peter Chegwyn, said: "I am really pleased that more people of all ages in Gosport will soon be able to enjoy the exciting game of pickleball.

"This £193,000 project to refurbish the Privett Park courts is part of the council investing over £1 million in sports and leisure facilities across the borough to support the wellbeing and fitness of our residents."

Gosport Pickleball Club plans to offer free taster sessions on the new courts when they're available.