SPORTS personality Judy Murray has accused an East Renfrewshire tennis club of “everyday sexism” over the alleged demotion of a female coach after she had a baby.

Ms Murray, whose sons Andy and Jamie are among the top players in tennis, issued a post on Twitter claiming the coach was demoted after returning to work from maternity leave, as well as having her hours reduced.

It is understood the organisation in question is Giffnock Tennis Club, while the woman mentioned is their former head coach Stephanie Norris.

Ms Murray tweeted: “When a young head coach at one of Scotland’s biggest tennis clubs returns to work after having a baby...and discovers she has been demoted and her hours reduced. Without any consultation.

“It’s shameful. No wonder it’s so tough to encourage women into sports coaching. No salaried jobs, no security, no career pathways.”

The former Fed Cup coach added “#everydaysexism” to the end of her tweet.

Giffnock Tennis Club, which was founded more than 120 years ago, charges fees of more than £600 per year.

The club’s chairman is Richard Cook, who is a former vice-chair of the Conservative Party.

Miss Norris, who had been head coach at the club for six years until earlier this year, gave birth to a daughter towards the end of 2017.

The 31-year-old, from Gourock, has coached players at county and Scotland level and is seen as one of the country’s top female coaches.

It is understood that Miss Norris has now started legal action against the club and that an employment tribunal got underway this week.

After leaving her job in East Renfrewshire, she took over as head coach at two clubs in Inverclyde.

Tennis Scotland is also investigating the case and has reiterated its support for gender equality within the sport.

A spokesperson for Tennis Scotland said: “We were alarmed to read about the allegations and are currently seeking clarification from the club involved.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Tennis Scotland is committed to equality both as an organisation and among our membership.

“Indeed, we wish to cultivate our position at the forefront of equality in Scottish sport, with the help of many partnerships, including Judy Murray’s ‘She Rallies’ programme.

“It is worth noting that 42 per cent of Tennis Scotland’s members are female. Our strategy seeks to continually improve equality, diversity and inclusion at all levels of the sport.”

Giffnock Tennis Club was approached for comment.