AN historic tennis club which spiralled into financial trouble has been saved after almost £70,000 was raised to secure its future.

At a recent annual meeting, doubt was cast over the future of Frinton Lawn Tennis Club due to a "significant financial black hole."

But James Max, the newly appointed chairman, said the committee had managed to stump up the cash to save the club from closure.

"Nearly £70,000 has been raised by the new committee to ensure the club remains solvent and is able to invest in important and urgent works," he said.

"I have been a member of the club for more than 40 years.

"I couldn't watch it spiral into financial difficulties and not try to do something to help.

"This isn't about throwing money at a problem either. With the very best will in the world, that's been tried. "This is about re-inventing our club. "By the time we've finished, it will be a more vibrant, exciting, social and sporting hub for North Essex's best resort."

Mr Max, a Financial Times columnist and presenter of the Early Breakfast Show on TalkRADIO, announced the club intends to construct a new entrance, redesign its bar and install indoor and outdoor seating areas.

A new summer bar will be created, named Bangs Bar after successful and popular club chairman Percy Bangs.

The club will be renamed Frinton-on-Sea Lawn Tennis Club, returning it to a name previously adopted while at the height of its popularity.

Benefactors have donated funds for a new PA system, repair work for tennis court lighting and replacing nets.

"We had more than 100 members turn out for a recent meeting, it was packed," said Mr Max.

"The support is there for the plans we are putting forward."

The club's leadership is confident refurbishment can be paid for through further fundraising.

It was once a key fixture on the global tennis circuit and remains one of the largest clubs in the country, with 16 grass tennis courts, eight floodlit hard courts and two squash courts.

It boats a fully-equipped gym and a heated outdoor swimming pool.