GREENHEAD Park’s restored conservatory has welcomed its first visitors.

The stunning Grade II listed building has been returned to its former glory as part of a £5.4m revamp of the park.

It was a second major boost for those behind the park revamp yesterday, as the restored tennis courts were also opened.

The previously dilapidated conservatory has been beautifully restored.

The adjoining bistro, The Park, which replaces the former park cafe, also opened its doors to visitors for the first time yesterday.

The building had been restored in the 1980s but had fallen into disrepair since.

The conservatory had been used as ‘target practice’ for vandals while the site had become frequented by drug addicts and alcoholics.

But thanks to Big Lottery cash and free panes of curved glass from NGN Glass, of Lockwood, the building has been restored.

Paul Mullany, vice-chairman of Friends of Greenhead Park, said: “It was awful. The few remaining panes of glass were getting broken by idiots.

“But I like it now. The restaurant would’ve been nicer if it was in keeping with the conservatory but I understand the financial constraints. But it’s growing on me.”

Among the first guests was Jasbir Kaur, 49, of Greenhead Park.

She said: “It’s fantastic and beautiful. I love the glass hall.

“I remember when it was all smashed.

“I’ve lived here 45 years and this is the best it’s looked.”

Meanwhile, tennis fans made a racquet on ace new courts.

Three new courts were opened by Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) president Peter Bretherton.

The courts were opened as part of the Greenhead Park revamp which has been taking place over the last few years.

A further six concrete courts will be opened to the public this summer.

All courts, which are open to the public for free, replace the park’s dilapidate gravel courts.

Cheap tennis coaching sessions are available courtesy of Huddersfield Lawn Tennis Club (HLTC), Edgerton.

Mr Bretherton awarded the project, led by the Kirklees Council and HLTC, Beacon Status for making tennis available to all.

He said: “It’s tremendous. People can play for free and if they want to play more there’s coaching. If they want to go further there’s a club down the road.

“We have to make tennis more affordable and inclusive and this project has all the elements we need.

“There plenty of enthusiasm from Kirklees Council and HLTC and I’m delighted to be here.”

Enjoying a knock-about was HLTC member and coach Ben Osborn, 18, of Birkby.

He said: “The courts are quite nice and much better than the old courts. It’s good just to get people playing.”