A NEW DECADE!
A THRIVING LEAGUE! WHAT’S AHEAD??
SEASON 1980
Chairman John Collier welcomed everyone to the Annual General Meeting. After dealing with the 1979 A.G.M. Minutes and thanking last year’s Officials he informed the meeting he would be relinquishing the post of Chairman and also Harold Ainsworth was resigning from the Office of Treasurer. John thanked Harold for all his hard work as Treasurer for over 13 years and the service he had given to the League. The Officers for the 1980 Season were elected:-
Chairman Bernard Pennington
Vice-Chairman Keith Wright
Secretary Alan Simms
Treasurer Martyn Williams
Minute Secretary Eileen Gee
Dance Secretary Alan Oakley
Publicity Officer Derek Gee
Interleague Captains Gents: Derek Gee. Ladies: Joan Matthews
Auditors John Collier and Derek Matthews
Applications to join the League from St Gregory’s C, Swinton, and Tyldesley B were accepted. With regret resignations from the League from Walkers C, Ellesmere F and Monton C were accepted.
The policy of no match replays was adopted for the 1980 season.
The Knock – Out Competition format was to be as last year.
To clarify the late arrivals Rule for the Individuals Tournament all clubs were notified “Players turning up over 30 minutes late are automatically scratched.” Hopefully, this definite statement will prevent further problems.
The start of the August Executive Meeting at the end of the season was chaotic. No Chairman (apologised). No Secretary ( arrived late) No Chairman’s Report (not received) Vice Chairman Keith was “Lost for Words” but he soldiered on. The League was financially sound in spite of the gifts for retiring members, new trophies and engraving costs.
Six social Tennis events had been held. Six Junior matches against Monton and one against Leigh C.C. Two Coaching Summer sessions and Parr Fold Park was booked for the Winter Coaching.
Alan Simms stated the returning of match cards had been disgraceful and caused a lot of extra hard work for the Officials. Clubs must improve or sanctions would have to apply……FINES etc.
The 1980 Season Presentation Dance
“All Action” John Collier presented the trophies and prizes. John’s service to Tennis and the League has been outstanding. :- 5 years as League Secretary, 6 years as Chairman, 16 years as an Official of Kearsley Tennis Club, former Gents Doubles Winner, Bernard Pennington’s straight man- all and more. There is no doubt he has been one of the main contributors to the League and his own Club in the 60’ and ’70s. John was honoured by these the League when the 3rd Division Knock – Out Trophy was named after him.
Martin Burley from and the Council Recreation Department, Harold Ainsworth Alan Pickering and Albert Cooper were welcomed as guests of the League. Harold Ainsworth could not attend due to a previous commitment.
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Vale House A | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Bolton Cricket Club | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | Tyldesley | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | Winton A | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | Winton B | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock – Out Trophy Winners
| Division 1 Ladies | Vale House A | |
| Division 1 Gents | Ellesmere A ( 4th successive year) | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 Ladies | Walkers A | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 Gents | Bolton Cricket Club | |
| Division 3 Ladies | Tyldesley (2nd successive year) | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 Gents | Tyldesley | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 Ladies | St. Augustines A (2nd successive year) | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 Gents | St. Augustines A | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 Ladies | Ellesmere E | |
| Division 5 Gents | Chloride B | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament Winners
| Ladies Singles | Louise Hopkinson | (Runner-up Bolton League Singles) |
| Gents Singles | Russell Dunnet | |
| Ladies Doubles | Louise Hopkinson and Dianne Ogden | (Also won Bolton League Doubles Dianne won the Singles) |
| Gents Doubles | Bill Davies & David Linden | |
| Mixed Doubles | Dianne Ogden & Martin Bromley |
Under 21’s Individuals Winners
| Ladies Singles | Louise Hopkinson | |
| Gents Singles | Derek Boston | |
| Ladies Doubles | Kaye Ashton & Catherine smith | (Won Bolton Charity Junior Doubles & Kaye shared Mixed Doubles Title) |
| Gents Doubles | Derek Boston & Nigel Dodd |
Under 16’s Individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Catherine Smith | (Won Junior Bolton Charity U16’s & U18’s Singles) |
| Boys Singles | Ian Hodgkinson |
Under 14’s individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Renee Smith |
| Boys Singles | Ian Hodgkinson |
Other Awards Sandra Birchall, and Anne Hodgkinson reached the County U12 Singles Semi-Finals. Anne beat Sandra in the Finals.
Sandra shared the Under 14’s Mixed Doubles Title and Runner-up in the Under 16’s Mixed Doubles.
Senior League Member Graham Hodgkinson shared the Bolton Charity Gents Doubles Title.
Many thanks to Alan Oakley and Martyn Williamson for coping with the distribution of so many trophies and prizes
SEASON 1981
LATE MATCH CARD RETURNS, BEWARE FINES!
The Meeting re-elected Chairman Bernard and all last season’s Officers.
A Junior Team under the name of Worsley applied to join the League along with Winton C and Leigh B. All three were accepted. Sadly M.E.L. A and B teams withdrew from the League
The 49 teams were divided into 4 teams of 10 and 1 of 9.
A New Rule was discussed and carried “No New Teams could enter the League in a Division higher than Division 4.” This was to ensure that the Winners of Divisions 2 and 3 were not denied promotion and to make sure promotion to higher divisions was earned.
Yet again a request for Replays to be reintroduced was proposed – this time by Tyldesley. After more discussion, the matter was put to the meeting. It was overwhelmingly decided that in 1981 there would not be any Replays.
Subscriptions payments to be £4.00 per team before June 30th, rising then to £4.50 if paid before the Dance and after Dance, the subscription would be £5.00.
Alan Simms reported the result card returns were disgraceful, causing much wasted time and unnecessary expense. League tables could not be published and Officials had to make telephone calls to get the information required.
The Treasurer reported that the League was financially sound in spite of a loss of £72.84, mainly due to gifts for retiring Officers, new trophies and the cost of the trophies. Income from Subscriptions was £352.00 and a profit on the dance of £150.00 helped to offset the deficit. Clubs were not returning unwanted Dance Tickets which was making the catering orders difficult to assess. In future Clubs will have to pay for the tickets by a certain date. Failure to send unwanted tickets back in time will have to be paid for.
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Vale House A (2nd. successive year) | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Tyldesley | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | St. Andrews | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | Leigh Cricket club | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | St. Marks beat Monton in a playoff | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock – Out Trophy Winners
| Division 1 | Ladies | Claremont A | Cup |
| Division 1 | Gents | Vale House A | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 | Ladies | Not Known | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 | Gents | Not Known | |
| Division 3 | Ladies | Not Known | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 | Gents | Not Known | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 | Ladies | Leigh Cricket Club | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 | Gents | Leigh Cricket Club | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 | Ladies | Not Known | |
| Division 5 | Gents | Ellesmere E | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament Winners
| Ladies Singles | Louise Hopkinson |
| Gents Singles | Not Known |
| Ladies Doubles | Tracey Taylor & D. Kelley |
| Gents Doubles | Phil Hallsworth & Ian Hodgkinson |
| Mixed Doubles | Bill Davies & Louise Hopkinson |
Results for Under 21’s, Under 16’s and Under 14’s not available
SEASON 1982
10 YEARS MATCH CARDS PURCHASED WOW!
Chairman Bernard welcomed everyone and thanked all last year Officials for their hard work. 1981 had been a very successful year and enjoyed by all He reported that Eileen Gee was retiring as Minute Secretary. Bernard thanked her for the different jobs she had done as a Walken League Officer:- Minute Secretary for many years, all the typing for the “ SMASH” magazine and helping with refreshments for Inter-League Matches and Finals day. Eileen is to continue doing any typing the League requires. Margaret Hallsworth was elected to the post.
Ten years Match Cards had been purchased in readiness for the New Season. Seems a lot but we all hope to be playing for many years to come and enjoying ourselves. Payment was taken out of League Funds so Subscriptions will remain the same. Alan Simms was hoping to hire the Courts needed for Juniors’ Coaching and other events. Court hiring is expensive and asks that any Clubs who can help supply any courts to let him know.
There will be no replays this season
Resignations from Bolton Cricket Club, St, Augustines A & B, Walkers C were accepted with regret. Applications from Leigh Cricket Club, Moorside TC and Pennington were accepted which kept the number of teams in the League similar to last year.
Reminder… Any player not turning up for the Competition matches will automatically be ineligible to enter the competition next year.
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Vale House A | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Tyldesley | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | St. Andrews | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | Leigh Cricket Club | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | Monton | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock – Out Trophy Winners
| Division 1 Ladies | Claremont A | Division1 Cup |
| Division 1 Gents | Vale House A | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 Ladies | Not Known | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 Gents | Not Known | |
| Division 3 Ladies | Not Known | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 Gents | Not Known | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 Ladies | Not Known | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 Gents | Not Known | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 Ladies | Not Known | |
| Division 5 Gents | Ellesmere F | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament Winners
| Ladies Singles | Louise Hopkinson |
| Gents Singles | Not Known |
| Ladies Doubles | Phil Hallsworth & Ian Hodgkinson |
| Gents Doubles | Bill Davies & Louise Hopkinson |
| Mixed Doubles | Not Known |
No information available for under 21’s, Under 16’s and Under 14’s
SEASON 1983
NEW IDEAS! TRAINER TROUBLE!
Chairman Bernard thanked all the League Officers and was pleased that all had agreed to continue in office for 1983. They were all elected “en bloc”. He was pleased to report that last year had been very successful and hoped the new season would be just as good.
Alan Simms complained that the competitors in the Individuals Tournaments were not ringing the result of the matches to him and he was having to ring them up which was adding to the expense of running the League. He asked competitors to be more considerate this season. Alan was trying to keep costs down by using fewer tennis balls in the coaching sessions and everyone must help.
Subscriptions would remain the same for this season.
Monton D applied to join the League and was accepted. The “Worsley” Junior team which joined us last year is changing its name to Ellesmere G.
What a Club running seven (7) teams!
No replay matches would be played this season. It was stated that replaying matches would mean fairer placings at the end of the season and not according to the weather. An idea to allocate points system for “ rained off “ matches was put forward. This was rejected. Ellesmere suggested revue of the current points system. Each match having a possible 10 points:- 2 points for each win on games and 1 point for each set won. The idea was to be put in writing and circulated to Clubs before the next A.G.M.
To help with Tournament matches Ellesmere offered to lend their courts for two weekends -; Saturday evenings and Sunday mornings. Parrfold said they would also offer their Courts. After discussion, it was decided to leave things as they were for the moment.
The question of “trainers” shoes with “rippled” soles was was raised as they can cause damage to certain types of court surfaces. It was decided that Clubs with this court problem had the right to ban players wearing such trainers. The Secretary was to send a list of the clubs banning” rippled” soled shoes and requesting that players wear correct Tennis shoes.
A last-minute suggestion to change the format of play to away teams having the option to play 1&2, 3&4 was put forward. More detail was required. Matter to be discussed at a future meeting.
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Ellesmere A | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Chloride A | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | Ellesmere C | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | Pennington T.C. | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | Parrfold C | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock – Out Trophy Winners
| Division 1 Ladies | Vale House A | |
| Division 1 Gents | Vale House A (3rd year in succession) | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 Ladies | Barton Hall | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 Gents | Chloride A | |
| Division 3 Ladies | Ellesmere C | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 Gents | Claremont C | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 Ladies | Monton C | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 Gents | Ellesmere E | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 Ladies | Not Known | |
| Division 5 Gents | Chloride B | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament Winners
| Ladies Singles | Suzanne Marsh | First Girl to win the SENIOR, UNDER 21’s and UNDER 14’s Tournaments In one year. OUTSTANDING! |
| Gents Singles | Ian Hodgkinson | |
| Ladies Doubles | Barbara Cain & Barbara Nowell | |
| Gents Doubles | Bill Davies & David Haycocks | |
| Mixed Doubles | Barbara Nowell & Brian Cain |
Under 21’s Individuals Winners
| Ladies Singles | Suzanne Marsh |
| Gents Singles | Ian Hodgkinson |
| Ladies Doubles | Barbara Cain & Barbara Nowell |
| Gents Doubles | Barbara Nowell & Brian Cane |
Under 16’s Individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Suzanne Marsh | Ist. Girl to win the Senior, U21’s & U16’s in one year |
| Boys Singles | Ian Mayall | Won G.M.C. Under 16’s Singles & shared the Boys Doubles Title |
Under 14’s individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Dawn Coleman |
| Boys Singles | Jonathan Chandler |
Janette McCormick and Elizabeth Wallwork were in the Bolton School team which reached the United Kingdom’s semi-finals.
Kaye Ashton won the Bolton League Ladies Singles.
These good young tennis players are our future in the Walkden Tennis League.
Congratulations to you all.
SEASON 1984
BETTER ATTENDANCE AT THE DANCE NEEDED
Chairman Bernard thanked the Officers for all their hard work in 1983 and was pleased they had been re-elected for the coming year. Martyn Williamson had run the League smoothly and efficiently and we could look forward to another good year.
Secretary Alan Simms repeated the instruction to clubs who would not let players wearing “rippled” sole shoes on their courts that it was their responsibility to ensure that clubs in their Divisions were informed in advance of matches that only players wearing acceptable footwear would be allowed on the courts. This would prevent any ill feeling on the night
Ellesmere G resigned from the League. Barton Hall B and two teams from J. &J. Hayes joined the League
The 2 teams up and 2 teams down system would apply to all 5 Divisions.
The new order of play proposal was closely defeated (20 -19) as the “away” first pair would have a double advantage and the second pair would arrive late and the social side of the matches would suffer.
The new points system was also defeated as it would lengthen the evening’s tennis matches and would not work when in got darker sooner in the early and late season’s matches.
A suggestion that having the Presentation Dance two weeks later avoiding the Bolton League event would increase the attendance was accepted for trial.
A suggestion that Clubs should offer tea and biscuits refreshments after matches would help to promote the social side of matches. Clubs offering just bar refreshment was asked to try to organise this as well
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Vale House A | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Astley A | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | Leigh C.C. B | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | Monton C | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | Winton C | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock- Out Competition
| Division 1 Ladies | Vale House A | |
| Division 1 Gents | Ellesmere A | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 Ladies | Astley A | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 Gents | Astley A | John Collier Trophy |
| Division 3 Ladies | Parrfold B | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 Gents | Winton | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 Ladies | Monton C | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 Gents | Monton C | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 Ladies | Winton C | |
| Division 5 Gents | Barton Hall A | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament.
| Ladies Singles | Louise Hopkinson | Runner –Up Bolton League Singles |
| Gents Singles | Ian Hodgkinson | |
| Ladies Doubles | Barbara Cain and Barbara Nowell | |
| Gents Doubles | Phil Hallsworth and Martin Bromley | |
| Mixed Doubles | Janette McCormick and Ian Hodgkinson |
Under 21’s Individuals Winners
| Ladies Singles | Aileen Smith | Semi-finalist Didsbury U18’s and U 16’s,& GMC U16’s |
| Gents Singles | Ian Hodgkinson | |
| Ladies Doubles | Jane Bridges and Aileen Smith | Runners-Up Didsbury Doubles |
| Gents Doubles | Ian Hodgkinson and David Haycocks |
Under 16’s Individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Sandra Birchall |
| Boys Singles | Ian Carroll |
Under 14’s individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Jane Bridges |
| Boys Singles | Jonathan Chandler |
The change of date for the Presentation Dance did not make much difference to the attendance at the event. Leigh clubs again were prominent by their absence. The Walkden League Clubs – Guild Hall, Ellesmere and Monton sold more than half of the ticket. The costs of engraving the Trophies were mainly covered by the profit on the Dance. More support was required if we are to continue increasing the tournament events and putting the winner’s names on the Trophies.
SEASON 1985
Another Idea! Dance Profits Down
Walkden and District Tennis League is continuing to thrive. The number of teams remains at 48-50 each year being divided into 5 Divisions with the promotion of 2 teams at the top of each Division and the relegation of 2 teams at the bottom. Everyone is enjoying the tennis matches and the various competitions are well supported. Many league members are taking part in other local Tournaments with some very good results particularly amongst the U21’s, U18’s and U16’s.
Chairman Bernard and all the officers were re-elected en bloc.
The cost of repairing the Division1 Shield in the closed season was £85.00. Repairs on other trophies is imminent showing signs of neglect. Unfortunately, last year’s Presentation Dance ran at a loss so there was no profit to off-set this cost. The money was taken from League Funds. In spite of this subscriptions will remain at £4.00 – £4.50 by June 30th – £5.00 after the Dance
It is essential that the Presentation Dance is better supported. Hopefully, the newly appointed Dance Secretary, David Wilde from Clifton, will be able to achieve this.
St. Marks C and Astley C were welcomed into the League. Resignations were accepted with regret from St. Andres B and Ellesmere F.
A proposal to alter the current points system to 2 points for a win and 1 point for a draw or a rained-off was defeated following a close vote 20 for and 19 against. It was also suggested that should 75% of matches per Division be rained-off. This proposal was also defeated.
No list of winners available. Results obtained from various trophies. If you can fill the gaps get in touch.
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Vale House A | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Chloride A | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | Not Known | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | Chloride B | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | Not Known | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock – Out Trophy Winners Winners Names Missing – No Minutes or lists of Results Available.
| Division 1 Ladies | Monton | |
| Division 1 Gents | Ellesmere A | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 Ladies | Not Known | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 Gents | Astley A | |
| Division 3 Ladies | Not Known | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 Gents | Not Known | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 Ladies | Not Known | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 Gents | Not Known | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 Ladies | Not Known | |
| Division 5 Gents | Guildhall D | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament.
| Ladies Singles | Louise Hopkinson |
| Gents Singles | Not Known |
| Ladies Doubles | Not Known |
| Gents Doubles | Not Known |
| Mixed Doubles | Not Known |
| Ladies Singles | Not Known |
| Gents Singles | Not Known |
| Ladies Doubles | Not Known |
SEASON 1986 CLEAN TROPHIES BEFORE RETURNING THEM
An Executive Meeting was held prior to the A.G.M for inclusion at the A.G.M. of a New Rule (No. 26 ) as follows:-
“Where clubs run more than one team and cannot raise a full number of players for all teams, then the top teams should play as a priority.”
In the absence of the Chairman and the Vice-Chairman Secretary Alan Simms took the Meeting.
Chairman Bernard and all last year’s officers were re-elected. Bradshaw and 2 more teams from Bolton Cricket Club were accepted into the League. Alas, Bolton Cricket Club cancelled one of the applications leaving the B Team in the League.
David Wilde from Chloride (Clifton Country Club) was officially elected to the position of Dance Secretary. He hoped to arrange the Dance at the Clifton Country Club if 250 people would attend and a Buffet supper would be provided. £1.00 a ticket. Brilliant!
Trophies were to be returned earlier than usual. DIRTY ONES WOULD BE RETURNED FOR CLEANING.
The Secretary expected to receive the Match Results on the Monday following the Matches. A late fee will be charged for any Club having to be “chased up”
The Secretary was asked to look into the complaint that toilet facilities were not available at Victoria Park and Moorside.
All was ready for another good season.
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Vale House A | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Parrfold A | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | Clifton C.C. (Chloride) | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | St. Marks A | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | Bradshaw | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock – Out Trophy Winners
| Division 1 Ladies | Leigh Cricket Club | 1st. Div. Ladies Cup |
| Division 1 Gents | Vale House A | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 Ladies | Parrfold A | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 Gents | Ellesmere B | John Collier Trophy |
| Division 3 Ladies | Clifton C.C.(Chloride) | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 Gents | Winton A | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 Ladies | Guildhall C | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 Gents | Winton C | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 Ladies | Bradshaw | |
| Division 5 Gents | Bradshaw | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament Winners
| Ladies Singles | Louise Hopkinson |
| Gents Singles | Martin Bromley |
| Ladies Doubles | Barbara Cain & Barbara Nowell |
| Gents Doubles | Martin Bromley & David Smith |
| Mixed Doubles | Barbara Nowell & Martin Bromley |
Under 21’s Individuals Winners
| Ladies Singles | Aileen Smith |
| Gents Singles | Alistaire Fielding |
| Ladies Doubles | Jane Bridges & Aileen Smith |
| Gents Doubles | Ian Carroll & Adrian Moores |
Under 16’s Individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Clare Flannery |
| Boys Singles | Richard Lane |
Under 14’s individual Winners
| Girls Singles | Kathryn Barlow |
| Boys Singles | Ian Long |
SEASON 1987 NEW OFFICERS’ POSTS SET UP
Chairman Bernard opened the meeting remarking the tennis in 1986 had been very good and an example to other Leagues regarding sportsmanship. He thanked everyone in Official posts for their hard work. Bernard gave a special thank you to Secretary, Alan Simms who was retiring at the end of the season. He praised Alan for his devoted service over many years and said we would all miss him very much. Alan’s work with the League youngsters over the years was outstanding. Their successes in Tournaments all over Lancashire, Cheshire and Manchester were remarkable and a testimony to the hard work he put into the League. Bernard hoped that Alan would keep in touch with all his friends in the League and all the activities of Walkden League.
The Meeting elected the Officials for 1987:-Chairman Bernard, V.Chairman David, General Secretary until his retirement Alan, Match Secretary and General Secretary designate Martyn Williamson, Tournament Secretaries Ian and David, Minute Secretary Margaret, who did a splendid job in 1986- her first year in the post and Joan, our Trophy Secretary. The post of Dance Organiser was left vacant.
Sadly there were 4 resignations from the League:- Monton C and D teams, Claremont D and Ellesmere D teams. On a brighter note, Astley B joined the League. The League format of 5 Divisions continued Divisions 1 & 2- 10 teams, Divisions 3,4,5- 8 teams in each. Special appreciation was expressed to Astley who could not be promoted as previously thought. They accepted the decision for the good of the League.
The Tournament organisers will try to organise the matches over a week rather than progressing through the season as in the past. The Finals day had tended to be a non-event. It is hoped the new format will produce more interest
St Marks representative informed the meeting that they were looking at the toilet facilities available for their Club on match nights.
Reports of the tennis matches being put in the weekly newspaper had caused some teething problems. This was being dealt with. The Tournament reports were particularly pleasing.
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Vale House A | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Tyldesley | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | Winton A | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | Bradshaw | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | St. Marks B | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock – Out Trophy Winners
| Division 1 Ladies | Ellesmere A | |
| Division 1 Gents | Leigh C.C. | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 Ladies | Astley A | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 Gents | Astley A | John Collier Trophy |
| Division 3 Ladies | Winton B | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 Gents | Winton B | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 Ladies | Bradshaw | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 Gents | Bradshaw | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 Ladies | Bolton C.C. | |
| Division 5 Gents | St. Marks C | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament Winners
| Ladies Singles | Suzanne Marsh |
| Gents Singles | Martin Bromley |
| Ladies Doubles | Barbara Dubbeldan |
| Gents Doubles | Martin Bromley & Ray Nowell |
| Mixed Doubles | Martin Bromley & Barbara Nowell |
Under 21’s Individuals Winners New Trophy from Alan Simms
| Ladies Singles | Suzanne Marsh | Alan Simms Trophy |
| Gents Singles | Jonathon Chandler | Alan Simms Trophy |
| Ladies Doubles | Christine Henning & Caroline Henning | Prizes awarded |
| Gents Doubles | Jonathon Chandler & Andrew Roscoe | Prizes awarded |
Under 16’s Individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Rebecca Rouse |
| Boys Singles | Jonathon Chandler |
SEASON 1988 SHORTAGE OF LEAGUE OFFICIALS.
Chairman Bernard was re-elected along with Vice- Chairman David McCormick, Secretary Martyn Williamson, Treasurer John Robinson, K.O.Secretary David Haycocks, Junior Development Officer Ian Nutter and Trophy Secretary Joan Matthews. The positions of Minute Secretary and Dance Organiser were still Vacant.
Applications from Walmer A and Walkers C were accepted. Resignation from Clifton Cricket Club B was regretfully accepted
The League Formation 45 teams divided into 5 Divisions. Division 1- 10 teams, Divisions 2,3,4 – 9 teams, Division 5 – 8teams
Astley requested that in future if the K.O. Rounds could be arranged to avoid Bank Holidays. This was agreed and matches were played in the first half of the season. The system worked well.
A proposition was passed that all matches throughout the season would start at 6.30 p.m.
The Senior Individuals Tournament went well thanks to the efforts of David and Samantha Haycocks with the exception of the Under 21’s Doubles which was cancelled due to lack of interest. The Junior Tournament also went well but the Junior League fizzled out also due to lack of interest.
The League finances were good again thanks to the profit on the dance. However, four Clubs still had not paid their subscriptions for the season. This is not acceptable and will be followed up possibly with further fines.
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Vale House A | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Vale House B | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | Bradshaw | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | Parrfold C | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | J & J Hayes | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock – Out Trophy Winners
| Division 1 Ladies | Guildhall A | Cup |
| Division 1 Gents | Ellesmere A | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 Ladies | Vale House B | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 Gents | Ellesmere B | |
| Division 3 Ladies | Monton B | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 Gents | Bradshaw | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 Ladies | Guildhall C | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 Gents | Parrfold C | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 Ladies | Walmer | |
| Division 5 Gents | Walkers C | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament Winners
| Ladies Singles | Aileen Smith |
| Gents Singles | Martin Bromley |
| Ladies Doubles | Aileen Smith & Diane O’Brian |
| Gents Doubles | Russell Dunnet & Ian Nutter |
| Mixed Doubles | Martin Bromley & Barbara Nowell |
Handicapped Doubles Winners First time this competition held
| Ladies Hcapped Dbles | Lisa Wilkinson & Gill Ashworth |
| Gents Hcapped Dbles | Stewart Hardy & Brian Carney |
Under 21’s Individuals Winners
| Ladies Singles | Aileen Smith |
| Gents Singles | Ian Long |
Under 16’s Individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Rebecca Rouse |
| Boys Singles | Ian Long |
Under 14’s individual’s Winners
| Girls Singles | C. Moore |
| Boys Singles | M. Ledger |
Under 12’s individuals Winners
Girls Singles K. Bradbin Boys Singles M. Barlow
SEASON 1989
DANCE ORGANISATION CHANGED
There appear to be two accounts of the 1989 A.G.M. Minutes overlapping. They are joined together for this record.
Chairman Bernard and all the officers were re-elected. June Fielding was elected to the Office of Minute Secretary. The Office of Secretary is still vacant and will revert to the Chair.
The Post of Dance Secretary ceased to exist when it was decided that Clubs in the League should take it in turn to organise the Dance. Bradshaw was to organise the Dance in 1989.
Applications to join the League were accepted from Bolton Cricket Club B and St. Marks C. Resignations were received from Clifton. The total number of teams for 1989,,,, 46. Division 1 – 10 teams, “Divisions 2,3,4&5 – 9 teams. Promotions 2 up, Relegations 2 down. ( One relegation was decided by games difference not a suggested “Play Off”.
A proposal from Ellesmere to include 4 Mixed Doubles sets as well as the usual 4 Ladies Doubles and 4 Mens Doubles in weekly matches was voted against as it was felt there was not enough light at the beginning and end of season for 12 sets. A second proposal from Ellesmere caused a great deal of discussion and it was resolved to make a minor modification to the Rule on Order of Play on a trial basis. This proposal gave the “Away Team” Captain the choice of playing his first couples in Sets 1 and 2 and his second couples in Sets 3 and 4.
Chairman Bernard thanked the League Officials and all Club Officials for their work during the Season. We had enjoyed some good tennis with many close finishes. He thanked Bradshaw for arranging a very good Presentation Dance.
Chairman Bernard’s Grouses Result Match cards not arriving soon enough or incorrectly filled in. Cards must be sent even if a Match is “Rained Off”. He was also annoyed by higher ranking players playing on lower teams. Please respond to the grouses next season. Get it right.
Treasurer John’s Grouses Some Clubs were still late paying their 1989 subscriptions. To date (2nd February 1990) FIVE teams still had not paid their 1989 subscriptions. Fines coming your way. Beware!
League Championship Winners
| Division 1 | Leigh C.C. A | Walkden Shield |
| Division 2 | Winton A | Albert Cooper Trophy |
| Division 3 | Leigh C.C. B | Alan Pickering Trophy |
| Division 4 | Guildhall C | Derek Smith Trophy |
| Division 5 | Kearsley B | Joan Matthews Trophy |
Knock – Out Trophy Winners
| Division 1 Ladies | Leigh C.C. A | |
| Division 1 Gents | Monton A | Tom Oldfield Trophy |
| Division 2 Ladies | Guildhall B | Eileen & Derek Gee Trophy |
| Division 2 Gents | Ellesmere B | John Collier Trophy |
| Division 3 Ladies | Winton B | Jayne Gerrard Trophy |
| Division 3 Gents | Leigh C.C. B | Bernard Pennington Trophy |
| Division 4 Ladies | Guildhall C | Winston Spencer Trophy |
| Division 4 Gents | Viaduct | Harold Ainsworth Trophy |
| Division 5 Ladies | Leigh C.C. C | |
| Division 5 Gents | Bolton C.C. B | Ron Hemsley Trophy |
Senior Individuals Tournament Winners
| Ladies Singles | Louise Hopkinson |
| Gents Singles | Derek Boston |
| Ladies Doubles | Louise Hopkinson & Sarah Wright |
| Gents Doubles | Bill Davies & Russell Dunnett |
| Mixed Doubles | Bill Davies & Louise Hopkinson |
Under 21’s Individuals Winners
| Ladies Singles | Alison Long |
| Gents Singles | Ian Long |
Under 16’s Individuals Winners
| Girls Singles | Claire Rigby |
| Boys Singles | Michael Ledger |
Under 14’s individual’s Winners
| Girls Singles | Melanie Owen |
| Boys Singles | Stewart Longworth |
Under 12’s Individuals Winners
| Boys Singles | Matthew Barlow |