What an incredible morning at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton, South West London on Sunday morning, 18th February ,for some of the Newman Collard players.
2010 Commonwealth Gold medalist, Jocelyn Rae and  founder of Bright Ideas for Tennis, Danny Sapsford, began playing tennis continuously at the NTC for 24hrs,  on Saturday 17th February at noon. 
The concept was a fundraising event to help the 12 participating tennis clubs raise money towards capital projects at their club, and towards helping more people play more tennis. In it’s 5th year, Danny was used to putting his body through the pain barrier, to play 24 hours of tennis, but this was new territory for Joss. 
Each club bought a team to play against Danny and Jocelyn ,who were partnered by different Davis and Fed Cup pros throughout the 24hrs.
Newman Collard were in for the graveyard shift - midnight to 4 am, along with club members from New Malden Tennis Club. Playing on the hallowed indoor courts , used previously by Davis Cup winners, Wimbledon finalists and Fed Cup stars, the assembled squad had a good knock up, before Godric Horne and Simon Harris took on Danny, and his playing partner, Ollie Golding. Amongst his many achievements, Ollie has the considerable honour of winning the 2011 US Open Junior championships at Flushing Meadow. Both players played against the pro’s, and then with them, performing really well. 
Next up, at 1am, were the powerful pairing of Tim Selby , with his superb serves, and Ben Marshall, who’s tennis has come on leaps and bounds, who also paired with Ollie and Danny.
At half time, a tactical switch saw the NCTC pairings mixed with Joss and fellow pro, Jonny Marray. Jocelyn has many tennis achievements, perhaps the greatest being her gold medal in Delhi for the 2010 Commonwealth Games. Jonny has a medal in his wide collection which comes from much closer to home, a Wimbledon champion, winning the Men’s Doubles in 2012. David Wright and Rich Pegden had the huge honour of pairing with and against Joss and Jonny, before Andy Gray and young Grace Pilbeam concluded an amazing four hours worth of tennis, with plenty of laughs, chat and superb play. 
The event concluded with a serving competition , to raise additional money for charity, with both Tim and Andy successful. All the players were indebted to both Sue and Roy Hubber for their unwavering support, throughout all 4 hours, providing encouragement and home made grub. Thank you both. 
Well done Andy, for organising such a memorable night, one that will live long with all involved. A great event, for a greater cause.