A Mexican sports craze labelled one of the fastest-growing activities in the world is to see its first indoor complex hit the county.

Residents will soon be able to play at a padel centre on an industrial estate in Ashford after eye-catching plans were revealed.

The game, which started in Acapulco, Mexico in 1969, became popular throughout South America and Spain and has now taken Britain by storm with huge demand for memberships of clubs.

Normally played in doubles, it is considered less intense than conventional tennis and is suitable for all age groups.

Using a smaller racket, the lighter-weight ball has to bounce first before hitting surrounding walls.

And it appears fans won't have to wait much longer with the Ashford site set to open in September.

Replacing hardware company Peli Hardigg, Square One will open its doors at Unit 4 Leacon Road on the Brookfield Industrial Estate.

The company has been founded by Harbledown-based racing driver Sam De Haan - son of former Saga owner and current Folkestone Harbour boss, Roger De Haan.

The 28-year-old says he became hooked on the sport having first played it five years ago and so decided to open the centre after finding a lack of indoor facilities in the county.

He explained: "My vision was not only to establish a premier indoor padel club, but also to ensure it features the highest quality courts comparable to those on the Premier Padel Tour.

"At Square One, we aim to provide facilities where the game can be enjoyed at the highest levels as well as by novices.”

The complex is being redesigned and converted by On Architecture, and, once completed, will feature three doubles and one singles court all-year-round.

This is alongside a gym and pilates studio featuring changing rooms, ice baths and on-site physiotherapists, as well as a restaurant, bar and pro shop.

Visitors will also be offered coaching, youth training programmes, tournaments and specialised padel group fitness classes.

Adult memberships will start from £25 per month or £300 per year, with over 60s costs beginning at £20 per month and £240 annually.

Padel is recognised as a discipline of tennis in the UK and the LTA (Lawn Tennis Association) is its national governing body.