TENNIS courts in Colchester will continue to be run by the borough council, it has been revealed.

Colchester Council was looking for a company to manage the 22 courts in Eudo Road, Shrub End.

Annie Feltham, councillor responsible for leisure services, said four companies had expressed an interest in running the site.

There were fears some of the courts could be sold for housing.

However, it has been revealed the courts will continued to be managed by the council.

Lib Dem Lyn Barton, ward councillor for Shrub End, said it was a victory for residents.

She said: “The Lib Dem councillors in this ward have always been committed to keeping the courts open and available for residents to use.

“We promised residents we would fight this all the way and I am glad we have managed to save the courts.

“I would never vote for the courts to close. I think they are a brilliant facility and I am delighted the decision has been made to make them work.”

Ms Feltham said: “We investigated how best to manage the courts as part of the service review.

“We have to look at the management and development of the courts.

“However, the decision has been taken by the council that we will look to manage them ourselves.”