12:46pm Tuesday 9th June 2009
Lawn Tennis Association chief executive Roger Draper paid a visit to Purley LTC on Saturday, when he attended a memorial event held in honour of a former player and friend, writes Helen Gilbert.
Club members were delighted when Draper arrived to support the American-style doubles tournament in memory of Jean Thirlwall, a committed junior campaigner who sadly passed away nearly four years ago.
Draper, who has spent the last three years transforming British Tennis, worked with Jean when he first moved to the area and spent an hour chatting to players and Jean’s extended family.
The occasion has now evolved into an annual fundraising event for the Royal Marsden Hospital, Sutton given its growing popularity.
This year 54 competitors took part in the matches organised by club coach Terry Cooper and £428.61 was raised for charity.
Players indulged in a glass of Pimms between rounds before finishing the day with a big bowl of strawberries and cream and a raffle.
Nicky Slim was crowned the 2009 champion and presented with the Jean Thirlwall Rose Bowl and PWP vouchers by Ian Thirlwall, Jean’s husband.
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