A CAR dealership has formed exciting new alliances with two Hampshire sports clubs in a bid to raise the profile of tennis in the county.

Lexus Hedge End has launched partnerships with Winchester Racquets and Fitness, and Thornden Tennis Club in Chandler’s Ford. The move is part of a major worldwide collaboration between Lexus, the Lawn Tennis Association and the Association of Tennis Professionals.

At national level, Lexus has become the LTA’s Official Performance Partner and Official Automotive Partner. Globally, the company has embarked on a multi-year partnership with the ATP which has seen it become Official Automotive Partner and Platinum Partner of the ATP Tour.

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At one of the Hampshire sports clubs (Image: Lexus)

Individual Lexus dealerships across the UK are involved too, with Lexus Hedge End and its two new sporting partners hoping their new relationships will work to everyone’s advantage.

Lexus Hedge End will support the clubs in a number of ways. The dealership has supplied an All-New LBX Self Charging Hybrid for use at Winchester; with Lexus-branded shirts provided for coaches and team players; and cosy hoodies for junior members to wear in winter at Thornden too.

Adult club members will be able to apply for discounts on Lexus servicing and sales, and enter competitions for special Lexus-sponsored masterclasses with The Tennis Mentor, whom the group have also partnered with as part of these activities.

The new partnerships will also involve Winchester holding a special Davis Cup-style tournament for the local business community this autumn and each club a prestigious Lexus Cup competition next March.

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In addition, Lexus Hedge End family fun days will take place at each club in the run-up to Wimbledon in 2025, with loads to enjoy such as tennis tutorials; a chance to explore the clubs’ tennis facilities; question-and-answer sessions and a barbecue.

Bruce Simpson, General Manager of Lexus Hedge End, said: ‘‘We are delighted to be partnering with Winchester Racquets and Fitness and Thornden Tennis Club to help promote their wonderful tennis facilities and encourage more people to take up this fabulous sport.’’

Lexus is a pioneer in the electrification of the premium car industry. The manufacturer’s comprehensive electrified portfolio includes self-charging hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric and all-electric models. The brand’s Hedge End dealership is part of the family-owned Snows Motor Group, based across the South Coast.