Haverfordwest Tennis Club president Brian Hearne has been recognised with the prestigious lifetime achievement award at the annual Sport Pembrokeshire Awards.

Brian, 86, was presented with his award at the Folly Farm ceremony finale on Friday, on what was a successful and memorable night for the tennis club.

Brian was described as a towering figure in Pembrokeshire tennis, whose contributions span more than 60 years.

A fierce competitor on the court and a gentleman off it – he has taken on pretty much every role and responsibility there has been associated with tennis.

As a qualified tennis coach since 1966, Brian has inspired countless players from schoolchildren to seniors, with his passion and expertise.

He was ever present down on the clay courts of the Parade, coaching school teams and ferrying talented youngsters all over the country with some going on to win national championships.

Also in 1966, Brian took over the reins of the Pembrokeshire County Open Tennis Tournament, ensuring its legacy continues into what is now its 75th year.

He supervised the annual Junior Welsh Tournament in Cardiff for several years, making sure Pembrokeshire Tennis was well and truly on the map.

Known as a doubles specialist, Brian himself claimed 15 men’s and 7 mixed doubles titles in the open - his 40 year partnership with David Banner the stuff of legend.

Playing well into his seventies, Brian was a member of Haverfordwest’s first team for 45 years, represented South Wales and Wales in veterans age groups, and won a Welsh doubles title.

Brian’s coaching prowess was not just confined to tennis. He was a founding member of Haverfordwest Swimming Club, coaching for over a decade, and helped form Scarrowscant United Football Club, where he also served as coach.

Away from the action, Brian was a powerhouse in the boardroom and a key figure on the Haverfordwest Tennis Club Committee.

In recognition of his lifelong commitment, Brian became Haverfordwest Tennis Club’s first life member in 1990. Today he serves as club president, actively supporting tournaments and fundraisers. Fittingly there is a Brian Hearne bench on court one where he enjoyed so many of his successes.

Brian said he was honoured to receive the award during an emotional acceptance speech.

“I feel like I’m part of the old television programme ‘This Is Your Life’,” he joked.

“Being recognised for such an achievement would not have been possible without the help of many other people, including my late wife who was so encouraging.

“Tennis has been an important part of my life and I am privileged to still be involved as president.

“This evening will be very memorable for me, particularly as my daughter and granddaughter are here to witness it.

“I feel this is a very fitting and very enjoyable climax to my involvement in sport and particularly tennis during many years of my life.”

Club chairman Dean Richards said he was delighted that Brian has been recognised.

“Brian winning the lifetime achievement award is a fitting tribute to a man who has been involved in tennis for over 60 years,” he said.

“Hundreds of Pembrokeshire juniors have had the benefit of his tennis coaching and knowledge over the years.

“Brian has been incredibly supportive of Haverfordwest Tennis club over the decades as a player, coach, chairman and present day club president and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.

“Congratulations from us all Brian.”