Although records of Formby Lawn Tennis Club are non-existent prior
to 1934, there is evidence that the club originated in the late 19th
Century, and the club has a trophy dating from 1891, presented by the
officers of the 4th Battalion of the Cheshire Regiment. From 1920 to
1937, the club, in conjunction with Formby Cricket Club, ran an open
tournament which was attended by many well-known British and overseas
players.
The club originally had only grass courts; the number is not known,
but by 1939 had increased to 6. For the greater part of 1939-1945 the
club was closed and it became neglected. Due to a dynamic President
and an enthusiastic "hands-on" committee, the club was soon
resurrected after the war. In 1952, the club acquired additional land
and constructed 3 hard courts. Step by step, the club has progressed
to the present set-up of 6 artificial grass courts, all of which are
flood-lit, and 3 grass courts which are available during the regular
tennis season.
The club’s most well-known member is Alan Mills, the previous
Wimbledon Referee, who was a very active playing member when he lived
locally. Alan is still a Life Member.