Murray mount closed due to 'health and safety' fears

As the heavens opened, the much-vaunted £100 million extendable roof was used properly for the first time, allowing Murray's match to continue on dry grass on Centre Court.

But the hordes who had waited all day to see the British ace in action were left disappointed as Murray Mount was deemed out of bounds because of health and safety fears.

Wimbledon spokesman Johnny Perkins said: "The hill has been closed because of the slippery nature of the grass while it is so wet.

"It is a health and safety issue. We just can’t have people slipping and sliding and falling off the thing and breaking their ankles.

"It’s different on the courts if there is a drizzle as they can sit on seats. We potentially could have large numbers of people slipping and sliding all over the place."

The announcement, made on a tannoy system as Murray warmed up, was met with groans and boos by the crowds who had gathered on the hill, a favoured viewing spot for those who do not manage to get tickets for the main courts at SW19.

Tennis fans had spent hours huddled under umbrellas waiting to see the Scot take on Spanish player Daniel Gimeno-Traver, a game that had already been delayed because of the weather and eventually began at 6.45pm.

The world number four came onto court with a racket bag displaying supportive messages from fans, as part of a campaign by his racket sponsor, Head, to get fans to interact with him.

The messages included: "Hold your head up high Mr Magic Murray", "Good luck Andy, stay positive we are all behind you" and "Believe in yourself and never give up".

Another said: "Andy you are a fabulous player keep playing your heart out every match!"

Murray was told about the screen closure and disappointed fans when he came off court. He said: "It's disappointing for them, I think. Obviously, when it rains, you know, there's only one court that you can watch. I'm sure they'll find a way of making sure in the future that they can get it on.

"But I think there are things you learn from having an indoor court for the first time."

Among those who were left with no option but to make an early exit from the grounds were British hopeful Katie O'Brien, who had been knocked out of the tournament earlier in the day.

Her day was would only get worse after writing on her Twitter page: "I've just been sat in the rain on Henman Hill with friends and family drowning my sorrows with a Pimms!!!"

Patricia Charlesworth, 49, from Birmingham, said: "I am absolutely furious, I had been looking forward to seeing Murray play for weeks and then they tell us we can't because of barmy health and safety rules.

"None of us mind a spot of rain, we'd rather get soaked and see some great tennis than miss out entirely."

Daniel Peterson, 24, from Bow, east London, said: "Fancy turning the screen off just because of a bit of rain when people have spent so much time and money getting here. It's ridiculous."

Murray Mount, once dubbed Henman Hill, allows up to 4,000 fans to soak up the atmosphere whilst watching the biggest games of the tournament despite not having a ringside seat.

The state of the art 3,000-ton roof, was installed on Centre Court as part of a major refurbishment three years ago but has only been used briefly on two previous occasions.

Mr Perkins said: "This is the first time we have had to shut off the big screen as this is the first time the roof has been used in these conditions.

"Previous to the roof, of course there would have been no play to watch on Centre anyway if it was rained off.

"Even if the rain stops we won’t turn the big screen back on – that’s it I’m afraid.

"It’s regrettable but wise in view of the circumstances."