Saturday 26th April for the annual season opening Eric Winton Trophy saw blue skies and no wind — ideal tennis conditions.

We played the usual very enjoyable format of the best of 24 points, with each player serving three consecutive points from each end.  We had a full house of 12 pairs, and we finished 8 rounds before tired legs called an end to proceedings.

Next year we could look to shorten matches to the best of 12 points, so that everyone gets a chance to play everyone else.

We welcomed Richard Crook , Chris and Isabella Sharp as first timers at the event, and Yvonne Dunne took the obligatory team photo, before the action started.

Much excitement ensued and a top shoot out on game point between sisters Diane and Andrea was recorded on video.  It was cross court end to end for several shots before a crisp volley from Gordon brought a thrilling rally to a suitable ending.

It was almost all about the enjoyment, but there was a steely competitive edge behind the camaraderie, with every point being keenly played for.  The final leaderboard placings are:

• 1st - Jake Fewell-Williams & Steve Watkins
• 2nd - Chris Sharp & Isabella Sharp
• 3rd - Colin Bentham & Richard Cross
• 4th - Albert Ball & Kieran Martin

Let's do the same next year folks, when hopefully we will see more ladies playing.