Spectacular showcase

THE second open tournament in a week staged by Winscombe Tennis Club proved to be a spectacular showcase of the quality of men’s tennis in the North Somerset League.

After a day dodging showers and overcoming swirling gusts of wind, Wells club coaches John Cooksley and Anthony Hudson took the champions’ trophy, beating Mike Greedy (Clevedon) and Ben Fletcher (Woodlands, Weston) in a hard-fought final.

The highly successful annual event, organised by Winscombe club chairman Peter Hucker, attracted almost 30 players and a good crowd of spectators.

Losing semi-finalists were Alastair Gregory and Sam Phillips, of Wedmore, and Chris Wheeler and John Treen, of Woodlands.

Presenting the trophies, Winscombe president Clive Wheller said that yet again the tournament had shown just how superb the standard of play had reached in the area and he commended competitors on the sporting spirit in which all the matches were played.

Meanwhile, some of the top players who took part will be staging an exhibition match at a free open tennis day being held by Winscombe at their six court complex on Sunday (May 6) from 2.30pm until 5pm.

There will be free coaching for youngsters and grown-ups from professional coach John Cooksley, plus fun games. Members and visitors will also be able to watch junior grand slam players in action plus Peter McGraw, former coach of Maria Sharapova, Jelena Jankovic, Tatiana Golovin and Xavier Malisse.

The occasion is being sponsored by sports kit manufacturers Wilson, and those attending will be able to try out the latest range of rackets and other equipment as well as see the club’s first-class facilities.