Following the mixed doubles tournament the On 29th August 2021, The Littlehampton Tennis Club paid a special token of appreciation to Stewart and Helen Lister for all their hard work and efforts over the years in supporting the club by presenting to them with an Honorary Life Membership Trophy. 

Stewart has been the head coach of the club since 2008 – relocating from Brighton – and been actively involved with getting the local community involved in tennis, running several courses at local schools as well as teaching all ages and levels as part of Littlehampton Community Tennis coaching and running Howard Lawn Tennis Club .  Helen has also equally been involved over the years with the club acting as club secretary – as well as acting ‘deacon’ of everything else; from organising the club diary to managing all aspects of promoting the club!

The award was presented by club member, Anne Stone – and it would be fair to say keeping the news of the award under wraps came as a  huge surprise to both of them! It was presented to them after the mixed tournaments award. Anne said in her speech:

‘As a small amateur club we rely on volunteers in a variety of roles from; admin., captaincy, organising tournaments, dealing with LTA etc, and are grateful to all who help. We are fortunate however to have some who go above & beyond the call of duty. This might be providing everything from tennis balls, tea bags and toilet rolls, to putting up nets, replacing tiles and unblocking the toilet!

Most will have guessed that  I am referring to Helen & Stewart and we would like to award them a trophy and lifetime membership for their years of hard work and loyalty to the club. Luke as one of our great young players will do the honour.’

Littlehampton Tennis Club encompasses the 110 year old Howard Lawn tennis club, based at The Sports Field, St Floras Road and Littlehampton Community Tennis Club coaching, based at Maltravers Park.