On a beautiful day at Queens Club, the Feltmakers Inter Livery Tennis Tournament this year featured a nicely symmetrical sixteen teams representing ten different livery companies.

Rob and Claire Hunt with Master Feltmaker, Simon Bartley

After some very good quality tennis last year’s runners- up, Rob and Claire Hunt from the Horners Company finally won 6-4 against a team from the World Traders.

Plate finalists Robin Bawtree (Master Carmen) and June Wallis with, on the right, Gilly Yarrow and Mark Welby

There was also great excitement in the Plate Competition, as the unstoppable force that is Assistant Gilly Yarrow with her effervescent partner, Mark Welby, won that trophy 6-2 in the final against the Carmen. It is nice to think that the beautiful Feltmakers Plate, donated some years ago by Past Master Geoffrey Farr, will be on display somewhere in the Mansion House later this year, when Gilly is the Lady Mayoress!

The day could not run without the helpers and supporters from the Feltmakers. I am grateful to the Upper Warden, Edward Hutton, and Past Master John Ray with their respective spouses for hosting tables at the dinner. Thank you also to the Master, Simon Bartley, for presenting the prizes and to Assistant Simon Wood for all his invaluable help throughout the day.

Winners Rob and Claire Hunt receive their trophy from the Master

Special thanks must go to Liveryman Bruce Fraser, without whose impeccable on court organisation and enthusiasm the day would have not run as effortlessly as it did.

Mark Welby and Gilly Yarrow with their prizes

I urge all liverymen to come along and support the event next year, whether in a playing, spectating or dining capacity. The surroundings and the food are always good at Queens Club and it is always one of the most enjoyable days of the Livery calendar. I look forward to welcoming you all next year.

Simon Millar