It was with great sadness that we learned in October 2024 of the unexpected death of Angela Holmes, who was our tennis coach at Ilmington for many years. 

Angela was very much part of Ilmington Tennis alongside her long membership and contribution to Shipston Tennis Club described below. Her contribution to our club is well remembered along with her passion for the game. She ran a thriving junior coaching programme, established the long running Friday ladies’ group, provided team coaching, put on social events, fundraisers and supper tournaments.  Angela’s sessions for Ilmington School were very popular and all the children loved her.  Her legacy to the club continues in those of all ages she taught and encouraged.

Following her retirement from coaching at ITC Angela remained a good friend to many of us and is sorely missed.   

In January 2025 the annual Warwickshire Lawn Tennis Association Awards ceremony was held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Solihull. We were delighted to hear that the Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded posthumously to Angela. The award was collected by her daughter, Lisa, and son, Richard, and Helen Patrick and Janet Connor were also there to represent Shipston Tennis Club.

We are so pleased that Angela's dedication to Shipston Tennis Club and to the wider tennis community over several decades has been recognised. It was thoroughly deserved.