NEW prices at a council-run tennis court have been criticised for being too high.

The family from Clacton, who asked not to be named, went along to Clacton Leisure Centre for a game, but were surprised to be charged £9 for an hour.

"You used to be able to play for under a fiver," said the father of two children.

"But now you are charged per person rather than per court.

"It is such a shame, as the children enjoyed their game, but are now subject to having it as a treat.

"The Government talk about keeping children active, but if prices are this high how can people do this on a regular basis?"

He added: "The court hasn't even been upgraded."

Tendring Council's communications manager, Nigel Brown, confirmed that since April 1, the charge for tennis is now per person, to bring it in line with other sports facilities.

"Now, instead of a charge of £5 for the court it is £2.50 per adult and £2 for those under 16, or £1 if on means tested benefit," he said.

"In the past, two people playing on a tennis court would have been charged the same fee as four people, and this situation has now been addressed.

"People are now being treated individually, and this makes it possible to take into account their own status."

Mr Brown said that depending on how regularly the family wants to play, they could benefit from an Active Card, which would also give them free use of other facilities at the site.