SUPPORTERS of Tim Henman from his home village of Weston-on-the-Green have wished the former British number one good luck following his retirement from tennis.

The British number two, who hails from the village, announced in New York today that he would retire from competitive tennis after Britain's Davis Cup match against Croatia at Wimbledon next month.

Many residents spoke of what the 32-year-old, who now lives in Aston Tirrold, has meant to them.

University lecturer John Mair, 57, said: "Tim put Weston-on-the-Green on the map.

"I wish him all the luck with his future, in whatever he chooses to do next."

Parish councillor Graham Barnett said the council often sent messages of support to Tim whenever and wherever he was playing - be it at Wimbledon or abroad.

Mr Barnett, 58, of Westlands Avenue, said: "We have enjoyed the fame here.

"Tim has played tennis all around the world and as a parish councillor I often sent messages emphasising our support for him and his sport.

"We have been pleased to associate ourselves with him and hope that his future includes a further role in British tennis."

At a press conference in New York ahead of the US Open tournament, Henman said he would draw the curtain on a career in which he never won a major championship title.

Simeon and Wendy Conley have lived in the village where Henman was brought up for nine years.

Mr Conley, who has two children with Wendy, Caelan and Amara said one of his children had shown an interest in tennis.

The 38-year-old said: "It's good to see the rise of a national and international tennis star from the village.

"It really encourages children to think about sport and the role Britain can play in the international sports circuit.

"I do hope that Tim will go on to do coaching or something similar - he can add more value to the potential of those athletes that are coming through.

"I wish him and the whole family well. His family are a very key part of the village community and are strong supporters of village life."

Olivier Bouet, chef and owner of Aston Tirrold's Sweet Olive restaurant, said "He's a nice guy, he's very normal and a regular customer, but he likes his privacy and we respect that.

"We don't want to draw too much attention to the fact he comes down."

Marilyn Napper, of Aston Tirrold Cricket Club, added: "He's come to the ground once before and people have seen his wife walking around the village with his children.

"He's been struggling over the past couple of years and I think he should retire gracefully."