Two players from Barrow's historic West Mount Tennis and Bowling Club have been crowned county tennis champions in Cumbria.
Steve Bushell and Jeff Atkinson, both hailing from Barrow, emerged victorious in the over 50s category of the Lawn Tennis Association's Cumbria County Championships held at Hawcoat Park, Barrow.
In order to claim the trophy, the duo had to overcome five matches of one long set, winning them all.
Reflecting on their success, Jeff admitted that they had started each match poorly but were able to turn things around by not putting themselves under pressure.
He said: "We started each match badly and had to turn things around. In one match we were 0-4 down and we just thought 'oh, well, we'll see what happens', then we got a lucky net cord and turned it round from there.
"I think it was because we didn't put ourselves under pressure that we were able to do that.
"In the semi final we played the holders, Peter Helme and John Bell. In the final we played Neil Maxwell, the current senior county captain and Paul Slight. It was match point against us and we won it on a champion's tie break."
Both Jeff and Steve play competitively for Coniston Tennis Club in the Barrow and Kendal Leagues but believe they are most comfortable on grass courts, particularly at their home club, West Mount.
Jeff praised the well-maintained courts and the friendly atmosphere at West Mount Tennis and Bowling Club, which has been a fixture of the local community for over 125 years.
"We train and play socially at West Mount on the grass courts," said Jeff. "It's a lovely club with well-maintained courts and a friendly atmosphere."
The club features three grass tennis courts and two crown bowling greens, all cared for by dedicated volunteers.
Although the season is coming to an end, the club is actively seeking new members and encourages anyone interested to contact John Twyford, the club chairman, for more information.
He can be contacted on 07716103124.
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