Stuart Smith travelled to Lancashire and the Isle of Man this week in his pursuit of visiting every county in British tennis.
On Tuesday, Lancashire’s Tennis Development Manager Scott Reid played host to Smith who visited Bolton Arena in the morning. After receiving a tour of the facilities, the LTA President was informed about the programme’s plans for the future under new Head of Performance Tennis Suzi Riley and also met with county volunteers to discuss local issues.
Smith then moved on to Holcombe Brook SC where he presented the club with the Tennis Clubmark award. Tony Lawson, who has been driving the club’s exciting relocation plans for the last six years, was also recognised for his tireless work and determination in seeing the project come into fruition.
To end Smith’s trip, he was shown some true Northern hospitality by being presented with a selection of Lancashire cheeses. Touched by the gesture, Smith commented: “This is the first gift I have received during my long list of county visits!”
On Thursday, Smith went to the Isle of Man where he was greeted by the Island’s Tennis Development Manager Ian Watson at Ronaldsway airport.
The first stop of the trip was the Isle of Man’s county office where Smith met with volunteers and officials to discuss local issues and current affairs within British tennis. This was followed by an excursion to Albany LTC where he held an informative question and answer session with around 30 people.
Watson said: "Stuart has had an excellent insight into the issues facing officials, parents and players trying to develop tennis on the Island. He has seen the need for a flexible approach from the LTA to tackle the issues we face and develop the game. We fully appreciate the time and effort he has made to come and listen to clubs and volunteers and the feedback he has given."
* Photo: Stuart Smith presenting the Tennis Clubmark award to Holcombe Brook SC