LTA President and Mayor of Bedford Join County League Celebration at Riverside Tennis Club.

Bedfordshire Tennis was honoured to welcome Sandi Procter, President of the LTA, and Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford, to the Bedfordshire Tennis County League Presentation Evening at Riverside Tennis Club in Bedford on Friday 7th November 2025. 

Both were warmly received by Bedfordshire Tennis Directors Francis Caldwell, Garry Morris, and Claire Raddan, along with Riverside Tennis Club Chairman, Andrew Lawson.

Mayor Wootton praised Bedford’s thriving sporting community, describing the town as a “great place for sport.” He highlighted the success of local park tennis – now with over 8,000 bookings – and reaffirmed his commitment to improving facilities and promoting both grassroots and elite sport. Reflecting on Riverside Tennis Club’s growth, he noted the transformational impact of LTA investment in 2005, which has helped establish Riverside as a leading tennis venue in the region. 

Sandi Procter shared her inspiring journey in tennis – from teaching and coaching in the north of Scotland to her current role as LTA President (2023–2025). She spoke passionately about her three-year experience walking onto Centre Court at Wimbledon, and the joy of presenting LTA Tennis Awards to volunteers and coaches across the country.

Procter reflected on her legacy in the sport, including developing the Mini Tennis Programme (Red, Orange, Green ball tennis) that has been adopted worldwide. She emphasised the importance of volunteers, describing them as the heart of British tennis, and quoted Dr Chatterjee’s philosophy of “Happy mind, happy life” — noting that volunteers “live longer and happier lives.”

Discussing the future of tennis, she encouraged clubs to stay adaptive and imaginative, highlighting the rapid growth of Padel and Pickleball. She urged venues to diversify their offerings, foster community spirit, and continue to innovate to ensure long-term sustainability.

Both guests praised Bedfordshire Tennis for its welcoming atmosphere and community spirit, recognising the dedicated volunteers and club members who make the county’s tennis scene so special.

Earlier in the day, Sandi visited Ampthill Great Park Tennis Club, Flitwick & Ampthill Tennis Club, Riverside Tennis Club and Towers Health & Racquets Club, where she saw the brilliant programmes running across each venue. Thank you to all four clubs for their warm welcome and support in making the visit such a success.

Finally, thank you to Claire Raddan for planning and organising the evening, and to Riverside Tennis Club for hosting and providing a superb buffet enjoyed by all.

Full photo highlights from the visit are available on our Bedfordshire Tennis social media channels.

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