Bromsgrove Tennis Club was buzzing with excitement on Saturday, September 13th, 2025, as it hosted its eagerly anticipated Finals and Open Day. The sun (mostly) shone brightly, barring a 20 minute period when all had to take shelter in warm embrace of the clubhouse bar. It did little to dampen the vibrant carnival atmosphere that permeated the club grounds throughout the day. With around 100 people passing through the doors, it was a fantastic celebration of tennis, community, and club spirit.
Volunteers worked tirelessly to create a truly memorable experience. Delicious aromas wafted from the barbeque, while a tempting array of homemade cakes satisfied sweet cravings. Younger attendees (and some adults too!) delighted in the creative face painting on offer, adding splashes of colour and laughter to the festivities. The incredible efforts of everyone involved helped to raise over £2000 for the club – a truly remarkable achievement!
The main event, of course, was the seven hotly contested finals, each played to a healthy and enthusiastic audience. Spectators were treated to some exceptional tennis, though surprisingly, every single final was won in straight sets, showcasing dominant performances from the champions.
The Men's Singles A title went to Joe Hart, who triumphed over Adam Tranter in a display of powerful hitting and strategic play. In the Men's Singles B final, Simon Hailstone was victorious against Phil Boardman with a convincing 6-2, 6-3 win.
The Mixed Doubles A saw Kelly Kenward and Simon Hailstone claim the championship, overcoming Hannah Weston and Josh Joyner in a hard-fought 6-3, 7-6 battle that had everyone on the edge of their seats, even with the straight sets victory.
Diane Horton and Dave Jones were the champions in the Mixed Doubles B, winning a tight contest against Sarah Hanson and Paul Hanson with a 7-6, 7-6 scoreline.
The Ladies Doubles crown was secured by the formidable pairing of Hannah Weston and Kelly Kenward, who defeated Chloe Adkins and Cerys Angell with an impressive performance.
The Men's Doubles B title was claimed by Paddy Flynn and Olly Rees, who beat Martyn Buttle and Tom Wicks 6-4, 7-5.
Despite all finals being won in straight sets, the competitive spirit was undeniable, particularly in the final match of the day, the Men's Doubles A final. In the match that most thretened to slip into a third set, Adam Darby and Oliver Stratford emerged victorious after a compelling match against Joe Hart and Stuart Shannon, winning 6-4, 7-6. Adam and Oliver came back from a break down in the second set at 0-3, to lead by a break at 5-4, Joe and Stuart broke back to stay in the match and held on to force a tie break, which like the set went down to the wire, with Adam and Oliver finally winning 7-5.
The cheers and applause for all players, winners and runners-up alike, underscored the fantastic sportsmanship and community focus of Bromsgrove Tennis Club.
The celebratory atmosphere reached its peak as the time came to honour the champions. Helen Bicknell of Mitchel & Co Jewellers, based in Birmingham, had the pleasure of presenting the gleaming trophies to the victorious players. As the club's main sponsor, Mitchel & Co's support is invaluable, and their generosity extended to donating the grand prize in the raffle – a stunning 18ct Diamond Pendant, valued at an incredible £1200. This magnificent prize added an extra layer of excitement to an already thrilling day, showcasing the strong partnership between the club and its dedicated sponsor.
