Cornwall was very pleased and honoured to have a visit from Derek Howorth the LTA President on Wednesday 4 November. Derek himself comes from Surrey and it was great to be able to show him a variety of Cornish Clubs, facilities and active programmes.
The day began for Jo, Sue, Hilary and Ann meeting Derek for breakfast at the County office, after which he was whisked away to Penzance Tennis Club for a very appetising lunch. Bob Ratcliffe accompanied by some of the Club's committee were very hospitable. Despite the rain we were all treated to an excellent display of tennis by two of the Counties best 'Orange Ball' players, Amy Polyblank and Tim Rutherford.
Moving on to Redruth Tennis Club, Derek was told about the Clubs achievements, which included Clubmark Accreditation and the proposed facilities improvements, consisting of the refurbishment of two of the Clubs six courts and the installation of floodlights. He praised the committee and the volunteers for their hard work and said he hoped that next year would see the project completed.
From left to right, Kate Flavelle (Coach), Joanne Downing (Tennis Development Manager), Sue Eames (Tennis Cornwall Chairman), Mark Hollow (Chairman Redruth Tennis Club), Derek Howorth (President LTA) and Hilary Webster (Tennis Cornwall Lead Volunteer)
A whirlwind drive up to Bude Tennis Club for a very welcome cup of tea, showed Derek yet another 'different' Club set-up, with very enthusiaticclub members and players. A great opportunity for an in depth discussion regarding facilities and membership - an ideal opportunity to have the benefit of Derek's knowledge and experience.
Overall, a very enjoyable and worthwhile day for all concerned, a special thanks to all at Penzance, Redruth and Bude Tennis Clubs and a grateful thanks to Derek for his time, advice and interest.
From left to right, Gary Bickle (Bude Tennis Club committe member and player), Derek Howorth and the future of British Tennis.