England Squash & Racketball (ESR) is to invest £40,000 in upgrading squash courts at public leisure centres operated by management company DC Leisure.

The revamp of courts is part of a new partnership deal between ESR and DC Leisure which will also see ESR deploy 23 development coaches and eight regional coaches at DC Centres.

The scheme forms part of the national governing body's long term strategy to increase participation in the two sports by 65,000 new participants over four years and increase footfall through public squash courts.

Steve Amos, spokesperson for ESR, said: "With nearly 40 per cent of squash courts located within local authority venues, working with major operators forms a key part of our strategy to increase participation.

Additionally, a 'pay and play' scheme is being introduced which will allow amateur players using public squash courts to become members of ESR and take part in officially recognised competitions and tournaments. Previously, membership was limited to players who were members of affiliated squash clubs.

Richard Millard, sports development director of DC Leisure, said: "Marrying our facilities with the ESR's expertise in delivery and coaching provision will ensure that together we provide the highest possible service to local communities.

"Across England, DC Leisure manages more than 100 courts and it will be fantastic to see them utilised to their full potential."