The Channel Islands women's tennis team will be stronger for their defeats in the LTA Summer County Cup last week, according to their development officer.

Hugh Raymond says the young side, five of whom were under 16-years-old, will learn a lot from their five defeats and relegation last week in Poole.

"I think the experience that went with them at Poole put them in great stead for future years," Raymond said.

"Hopefully this is a step up the ladder now," he added on BBC Guernsey.

The CI team was promoted for the first time in 20 years two years ago, but last year's Summer County Cup was postponed after problems getting fresh water to the venue.

But since then Raymond says the experienced players have stepped aside to give youth a chance to improve.

"They won two years ago when Yo Robinson and Claire Randall were the captains. They felt that it should come more to the juniors," Raymond said.

The CI men's team fared much better, winning their first ever promotion at the weekend.