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13 JUNE 2003
The Henman name is going to make its mark at Wimbledon this year, but unfortunately for tennis lovers, it may be Tim's mum who makes the biggest impression. Jane Henman has designed a new collection of tennis wear for the Wimbledon clothing brand.
"They wanted to establish a range of serious tennis wear to compete with big names like Reebok and Ellesse," says Jane. "It was exactly the new challenge I was looking for." Her creations will go on sale at the Wimbledon shop and department stores around Britain this weekend.
Tim's family have long-standing links with tennis in Britain. Jane's grandmother, Ellen Mary Stawell Brown, was the first woman to serve overarm at the tournament, while her mum, Susan Billington, was the last to serve underarm.
And Jane is no stranger to creating stylish tennis wear. Back in 1977 she designed Winnie Shaw's silver-lined halter-dress, but after a stint with Fred Perry she stopped work to raise her children.
Now Jane's back in the game, however, and she's confident the new collection successfully combines functionality with fashion. "I've tested everything," she says. "Playing tennis inspired all the designs. I feel as though I've spent my life designing tennis gear, but I never stop coming up with ideas."
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