Players’ tennis marathon raises cash for children

MEMBERS of Bramhall Lane Lawn Tennis Club played in a 24-hour tennis marathon over the weekend, raising over £1,600 for Children in Need.

The charity match kicked off at 6pm on Friday 23 June, with Stockport MP Mary Robinson cutting the red ribbon and showing her support to players.

She said: “I am delighted to be here today, I think what the club is doing is amazing and it’s so wonderful to see the community coming together and organising events like this, it really does make me feel proud.

“The tennis club is an asset to the community and all the young people here today are having a wonderful time and it’s great that they get to spend their summer here.

“The people here today have given up their time to help Children in Need, not only the coaches, but also the volunteers - and it really is admirable.”

Alongside Mrs Robinson and the Mayor of Stockport Bramhall’s very own Elvis Presley made a guest appearance on the Saturday afternoon, in a bid to show support and keep the momentum going.

Club coach James Turner was the first player to step on the court. He said: “I’m thrilled we are doing this event, I just hope the weather stays fine, but, then again, we aren’t going to let a bit of rain stop us.”

Over 50 members of the tennis club took part in the fundraiser, with players switching places every hour - even through the night.

On Saturday afternoon the club hosted a summer barbecue to celebrate, including a bake sale, raffle and Pudsey bear nail painting for children.