THE HUNT is on for the next generation of Tim Henmans as the Cliff Richard Tennis Foundation serves up a tour of Southampton schools.

About 1,500 pupils will be taking advantage of a drive to take up sport and exercise this week from today.

The foundation will provide tennis coaching and free equipment for primary school children across the city.

Sir Cliff said: "I am delighted that this year's Tennis Trail will visit Southampton.

"Increasingly children are leading less active and more isolated lifestyles, sitting in front of TV screens and computers.

"Lack of exercise must play a major part in the rising incidence of obesity among children.

"Tennis can help by offering children a fun way to keep fit and a great opportunity for them to socialise and develop a wide range of skills."

Professional coaches will visit ten schools in the Millbrook, Shirley Warren and Lordshill areas between Monday and Friday.

Director of the Cliff Richard Tennis Foundation and former international player Sue Mappin said: "Children across the country are becoming less fit.

"This is, in part, due to a steady decrease in time allocated for sport in the curriculum and the sale of school playing fields."