JOHNSTONE residents have hit out at the council over the state of the tennis courts ahead of Wimbledon.

Budding Andy Murray's of the future have slammed the condition of the facilities which they say have been left to "weeds and ruin".

One of the courts in question is based at Park Road near the Bowling Club in Johnstone and another fenced in area opposite the sporting grounds.

With no line markings or similar to determine what it was once used for, and tangles of weeds sprouting from the ground, residents believe the facility has been so badly neglected it barely resembles a court anymore.

Paul Slaven who lives in the area said: "Having just seen Andy Murray win recently, it got me thinking about the so called tennis courts in Johnstone.

"Having walked past them recently, I can only say they have been left to weeds and ruin.

"If courts are done right, could be a fabulous asset to the area.

"I think it's a shame they have been left in such a state."

Councillor Stephen McGee, SNP for Johnstone South, Elderslie and Howwood agrees that revamping the courts will benefit the communities.

The politician recalls when he was a boy that the courts were well used during the summer period, particularly during Wimbledon and believes that fixing the courts will inspire youngsters to take up for the sport.

He said: "During this time of austerity we face times of continued uncertainty therefore it is incumbent on our local councils to ensure that services are prioritised within our local communities to enhance the community spirits and give our younger generations opportunities for enhancement and development. 

"I think that Renfrewshire council should reconsider the building of another facility in Paisley and reinvest money in local facilities such as the tennis courts in Johnstone that would give the kids in Johnstone a great opportunity to play sport locally.

"Reinvestment into the tennis courts would be a fantastic idea particularly with the recent announcements of Andy Murray being ranked number two in Wimbledon. 

"This could only be good for our communities and our children." 

Councillor Eddie Devine, Convener of Renfrewshire Council's Environment Policy Board however returned the criticism and said the courts are in working condition.

He said: "Councillor McGee rarely comments on local issues and you can see why. He talks about tennis courts in Johnstone but hasn't bothered to check his facts.

"There is a court which is organised by the local bowling club and is available for community use.

"The adjoining unused courts are unused for a reason. They show evidence of Japanese knotweed. The best solution is to allow the knotweed to grow on the three courts to enable spraying and weed control to take place.

"Other former courts nearby were turned into a BMX track with the support of the local community.

"As for plans for a major sports facility in Paisley, that regional performance centre would attract funding from other partners.

"Councillor McGee should be looking honestly at how we fund local sports and leisure facilities.

"That requires fair funding for Renfrewshire from the Scottish Government not the unfair and disproportionate cuts imposed on Renfrewshire compared to other areas."