The Northumberland Club based in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne have won a prestigious national title at the Club Mirror Awards held at the Palace Hotel in Manchester. The Club scooped the title of 'Tennis Club of the Year' despite strong opposition from clubs all over the UK. The judges spent much time sifting through all the nominees before short listing the final six. At a gala dinner, BBC Sports Presenter John Inverdale announced The Northumberland Club as winners in front of over 650 guests and presented the winning trophy to Club Manager, Graeme Manwell and Duty Manager, David Glass.
The winning Club had to meet a long list of criteria including, provision of quality facilities, providing a welcoming and safe environment and having sport development programmes which offer playing opportunities for as many people as possible.
Club Mirror Publisher and Managing Director Sean Ferris said “Many of the nominees are key in championing their own grass roots sports activities, encouraging members young and old to participate in sports and fitness. Others have focused on building their social and entertainment programmes, enhancing their catering operations, refurbishing the club and facilities and keeping drinks at sensible prices despite rising costs. We also honoured clubs for the hundreds of thousands of pounds they raise for charity across the year"
Head of Judges Caroline Scoular said “What a year for The Northumberland Club, it has hosted National and International events in both Tennis and Squash, It has invested time in establishing a well planned calendar of social activities for its members and should be applauded for its hard work in offering tennis playing opportunities to people with disabilities.
She went on to say “In the first year of its disability programme The Northumberland Club has held a National Blind and Visually Impaired Tennis Tournament, has run sessions for adults with learning disabilities and are in the advanced stages of starting wheelchair tennis sessions. The necessary attributes required to win this award are rigorous and only the very best Clubs in the country are awarded the 'Club of the Year Title', many congratulations to Graeme and all of his team.
Club Manager Graeme Manwell said “It is a true honour to win such a prestigious award against such strong opposition and one which everyone connected to The Northumberland Club will truly value. However, there is much work still to be done and we will work tirelessly to improve the activities and facilities which we are able to offer. Our aim is to have more people on courts, having fun and taking part in exercise regardless of their age, background or lifestyle. Everyone should have the opportunity to participate in sport and we will continue to strive towards this goal. Let’s hope we can defend our title next year”!
Notes to Editor
- Club Mirror magazine, owner and organiser of the awards, has been an integral part of the club industry for over 46 years. The Awards are now in their 22nd year.
- Picture shows BBC’s John Inverdale presenting award to The Northumberland Manager, Graeme Manwell and Assistant Manager David Glass
For Further Information contact: Graeme Manwell, Club Manager,
The Northumberland Club, North Jesmond Avenue, NE2 3JU, 07968 898653