South Tyneside tennis lover's move to care service has been ace - now he's dreaming of Wimbledon!
His passion developed through playing soft tennis at the Northumberland Club.
A lifelong tennis fan from South Tyneside is thriving in his new community and now hopes to visit Wimbledon.
For the past year Alex Warents has lived at Harmony House in Hebburn, where he receives support with his mental health. He had previously lived in a secure unit.
Tennis plays a big part in Alex’s life. He has played for more than 40 years. His passion developed through playing soft tennis at the Northumberland Club before progressing to Tennis in the Park and eventually competitive senior tennis.
Over the years, Alex has represented clubs in the Northumberland and Durham leagues, including South Northumberland, Jesmond and Westoe.
After moving to Harmony House, run by Salutem Care and Education, he joined Westoe Tennis Club and quickly become an active member, playing for its first and second teams as well as the first veterans’ team.
Tennis is a key part of the life Alex’s life since leaving a secure setting and moving to Hebburn, giving him the opportunity to continue doing something he loves while becoming part of his local community.
Alex said: “Tennis has been part of my life for more than 40 years. I started playing in my parents' back garden with a wooden racket and from there I just became more and more interested in the sport.
“Since moving to Hebburn, I have joined Westoe Tennis Club and I absolutely love playing there. I have been playing for the first and second teams and the first veterans' team, and we have had some good success.
“Tennis gives me something to look forward to and I really enjoy being part of the club. We are now hoping to organise a trip to Wimbledon next year, which would be fantastic.”
John Godden chief executive of Salutem Care and Education, said: “Alex's story is a wonderful example of what good support should ultimately be about and that is enabling someone to live a fulfilling life, pursue the things that matter to them and be an active part of their community.
“His passion for tennis has been with him for more than 40 years and it is fantastic to see him not simply continuing to play, but competing for his local club and enjoying the friendships and sense of belonging that come with it.”