Norfolk 60's Ladies took on the current holders, Hereford and Worcester, in the playoff finals in Dudley.
After going 2-0 down after the singles round, Sally Farman and Mary Ogden improved Norfolk's chances by beating the doubles pair comfortably. They then had to take on the 2 singles players in their second doubles, and competed very well in a tight match to win the championship tiebreak 3rd set by 11-9. The match then stood at 2-2, so Caroline Blincoe and Jane Ling needed to win the last rubber against the doubles pair, which they achieved comfortably, giving Norfolk the title!
The Norfolk 50's played Essex the following day, and were soon 2-0 up due to excellent singles performances by Tricia Peal and Judy Horn. Jane Ray and Sue Rich played the first doubles, but came up against strong opposition and lost in 2 sets. Tricia and Judy then played the doubles pair, only losing a very close 3rd set tiebreak 9-11. Again the match depended on the final rubber, and Jane and Sue played very well to win in 2 sets to seal the victory.
Apparently it is the first time for Norfolk mens or womens teams to ever achieve the top position in division one of the county league, so for both teams to win was a fantastic result.
Both teams were very appreciative of the supporters from Norfolk who had given up their weekend to be there to encourage them.
Also grateful thanks to coach Murray Parfitt for the excellent match preparation, and to Andrew McNeil at Virgin Active Norwich for making courts available for practice.
Report by Jane Ling