Division two of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League saw two players produce standout performances this week. Galleywood B’s League stalwart Gary Copsey excelled by taking a hat-trick against Hatfield Peverel A although it was Hatfield Peverel A who ran out 7-3 winners. Gary Copsey beat Gareth Davies (11-6, 11-6, 11-2), Alastair Piper (11-9, 11-4, 20-18) and he completed a memorable treble with a (14-12, 6-11, 8-11, 11-8, 12-10) win over Martin Archie. Writtle B’s Phil Smith, better known in the Clacton League, also picked up three very good wins against Chelmsford C although Chelmsford shaded the match 6-4. Phil Smith saw off the challenges of Victor Chan (11-9, 11-7, 4-11, 11-7), Joachin Mapes (11-8, 11-9, 11-9) and Mark Allaway (11-8, 9-11, 7-11, 12-10, 11-9). OCA C won a close match against Danbury E 6-4, although no one player remained undefeated. Mick Hayes sealed the victory for the Old Chelmsfordians side with a fine (7-11, 11-9, 11-7. 7-11, 11-8) win over Tony Forster. Danbury D returned to the top of the table by beating OCA B 9-1. Chris Buer and Sanjay Saptarshi both won twice although Chris Buer had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Trevor Carter (9-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-3, 13-11). Writtle C defeated Chelmsford D 8-2. Gary Ward and John Webber were both undefeated whilst John Gagg gave Writtle a winning start by beating Keith Martin (9-11, 9-11, 11-8, 11-6, 11-9) in a hard-fought opening encounter.  

First played second in division one this week and the leaders – OCA A produced a top-class performance to beat Danbury C 8-2. Matt Mulley retained his 100 % singles record (21 wins out of 21) beating Keith Adams (11-4, 9-11, 11-8, 11-7), Toby McLewin (9-11, 11-7, 11-3, 11-4) and Trevor Lloyd (11-5, 12-10, 12-10). Impressive or what !. Toby McLewin made his mark with a (13-11, 13-11, 11-3) victory over Paul Lucas. Chelmsford B scored a fine 7-3 win over Writtle A. Wiktor Delimat excelled and his trio of wins included a fine (11-8, 11-5, 8-11, 12-10) win over Lee McHugh. Writtle A fared even worse against Chelmsford A, losing 8-2. Josh Bickles won his three singles for Chelmsford, beating Richard Storey (12-10, 11-13, 11-6, 11-9), Ryan Pitt (11-7, 12-10, 11-7) and Lee McHugh (11-7, 9-11, 11-8, 5-11, 11-9). Chris Penrose, best known in the Romford League produced his best display of the Season as Danbury A defeated Danbury B 7-3. His excellent hat-trick of wins included victories over Ian Wall (12-10, 11-1, 7-11, 11-8), Matt Stringer (11-9, 5-11, 11-7, 9-11, 11-6) and Dan Anderson (9-11, 6-11, 11-3, 11-3, 11-4).

No fewer than seven scorecards in division three this week. With no scorecard from leaders and firm favourites Danbury F all seven games were well contested. Dawn Baldry was on good form for Maldon B and she won her three singles against Hatfield Peverel B although Hatfield Peverel won 6-4. Dawn completed her hat-trick with a (9-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-6) victory over Neil Freeman. Second-placed Danbury G also won 6-4, beating Chelmsford E. Gordon Gatheral and Ken Sheard won twice for Danbury with Aidan Lees picking up two wins for Chelmsford.  Alan Scammell made his mark with a fine (11-7, 11-8, 11-4) success against Aidan Lees. It was honours even between Maldon B and Danbury H. Peter Hance won his three singles for Danbury and this included a hard-fought (11-9, 11-13, 9-11, 11-6, 11-8) win over Dawn Baldry. Richard Baxter’s hat-trick left OCA D in the ascendancy against Writtle D and they ran out 7-3 winners. Dave Carter was on target for Writtle with a last gasp (11-9, 15-13, 9-11, 8-11, 13-11) win over Richard Upson. OCA D were also winners against Chelmsford F, and in a match where no one stayed undefeated they won 6-4. Chelmsford’s Dusan Doszkoty scored a fine (11-5, 9-11, 12-10, 11-8) victory over Richard Baxter.  Fourth-placed Danbury K were held to a draw by Writtle D. Matthew Brown won his three singles for Writtle beating Mervyn Perriman (9-11, 5-11, 11-4, 11-6, 12-10), Denis Crapnell (11-4, 11-6, 17-15) and Denis Balic (11-8, 11-6, 11-5). Third placed Danbury H beat Writtle E 7-E. The last four games were all decided in the fifth end, with Danbury H winning all four of them. The last game of the match ebbed one way and then the other before Dave Marsh pipped Malcolm Storey (8-11, 11-3, 11-7, 1-11, 11-9).

Division four leaders Danbury L ran out 8-2 winners against Chelmsford H. Dave Powell and Rob Kneale were both undefeated. Jacqui Smith scored a fine (5-11, 13-11, 5-11, 11-8, 13-11) win over Richard Allen for the losers. Hatfield Peverel C, also won 8-2; against Galleywood C, impressive going against a team level with them on 43 points. Connor Payne led the way with a hat-trick and this included a very hard fought (10-12, 12-10, 12-14, 11-4, 11-9) win against Colin Blore. The match between Hatfield Peverel D and OCA F finished tied at 5-5. David Bishop was undefeated for OCA. Chelmsford G moved up to second by beating Danbury H. Harrison Hill, 23 wins out of 24 – 96 % scored yet another hat-trick. He was poised at 2-2 with Tim Pulham before powering ahead in the decider to win (9-11, 11-6, 7-11, 11-9, 11-0).

Highwood A stay top in division five after beating Galleywood D 9-1. Melanie Bonnett (88 %) and Keith Fitz-John (80 %) were both undefeated. Chelmsford J with Jacqui Smith and Paul Bullock on top form raced to an 8-2 win over Maldon E. Jacqui Smith completed her hat-trick with a (8-11, 11-5, 10-12, 11-6, 11-7) victory against Kym Eames in the last game of the evening. Highwood also ran out winners, 7-3, against Writtle E. Roger Patient and Martin Goddard were both undefeated.

All players are reminded that the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Finals night takes place on Monday 16 January 2023 at 19.30 hours at Old Chelmsfordians Association, Lawford Lane, Roxwell Road, Chelmsford, CM1 2NS.  

 Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

Saul Chivers on sparkling form in Mens Singles

The Mens Singles Semi-Finals in the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League will feature two relatively young players and two more mature campaigners on Monday 16 January 2023. The venue will be Old Chelmfordians Association, Lawford Lane, Roxwell Road, Chelmsford, CM1 2NS starting at 19.30 hours.

Saul Chivers, aged 18, and possibly seeded too low at number 17, was the undoubted star of the show. Ironically, he failed to win his Mens Singles group, losing out to Sanjay Saptarshi; not too big a shock in itself. However, this result pitted him against top seed, ace defender Duncan Taylor in the first round, a player he had lost to 3-0 to in a recent League match. It is clear that Saul had learned a lot from this defeat as he came out on top here in five gruelling ends, in the day’s best game, 11-9, 10-12, 11-9, 0-11, 11-7. Having lost the fourth game 11-0 it says a lot for his composure and fighting spirit that he played so well in the fifth end. Perhaps it is a slightly controversial thing to say but this was also the game which “set this event alight”. Saul went on to beat his brother – Harry Chivers (11-6, 12-10, 11-2) and Sam Lowman (11-8, 9-11, 13-11, 11-6) to book his Semi-Final appearance. Sam Lowman had defeated Robert Shrimpton (11-6, 14-12, 15-13) to clinch his Quarter-Final place.

Joining Saul in the Semi-Final will be Lee McHugh, aged 33, very well known as the League’s most active Coach. Lee seemed to pick up pace as the rounds progressed. It took him five games to beat Paul Sturton in round one (11-9, 7-11, 11-6, 11-13, 11-7), and four games to see off Wiktor Delimat (11-7, 14-12, 6-11, 11-6) in the second round. Lee peaked in the Quarter-Final, defeating Toby McLewin (aged 17, and another outstanding prospect) decisively (11-5, 11-7, 11-4). More on Toby later. Toby McLewin had been hard pushed to defeat Babul McLeod (11-8, 6-11, 4-11, 11-6, 11-8) a round earlier, after another enthralling encounter.

In the other half of the draw, Kevin Read, aged 49, and twice previously a Semi-Finalist, lived up to his billing as number three seed. He is playing as well as ever. Facing a tricky draw he fought his way past Peter Barrett (9-11, 11-6, 7-11, 11-9, 11-2), Joshua Bickles (11-9, 12-10, 9-11, 11-9) and Paul Davison (11-9, 8-11, 8-11, 11-4, 11-6). Davison had seen off another hugely promising Junior – James Donald (11-3, 7-11, 11-3, 11-3) a round earlier. In other compelling games Joshua Bickles defeated Aidan Lees (11-9, 15-13, 6-11, 11-7) whilst James Donald beat Dan Anderson (11-7, 9-11, 11-4, 11-3).

Kevin Read will face second seed, Keith Adams, aged 54, in his Semi-Final. Keith Adams had to dig deep as well to battle his way through. He beat Victor Chan (11-7, 11-13, 11-6, 11-4), then Ian Wall, after a titanic battle (8-11, 7-11, 11-4, 11-6, 12-10) and finally Eric Green (11-8, 15-13, 11-5).  Ian Wall overcame Sanjay Saptarshi in five ends (11-13, 11-6, 6-11, 11-8, 11-5).  

The Ladies Singles Final will be between the top two seeds – holder and favourite Dawn Baldry and second seed Andrea Alleyne.  Dawn did not drop a game as she beat Jacqueline Smith (11-5, 11-8, 12-10) and Frances Hutt (11-7, 11-8, 11-7) whilst Andrea Alleyne defeated Davina Brazier (12-10, 11-8, 11-7) and Alesha Ellis-Austin (11-6, 11-7, 11-13, 11-3). Alesha Ellis-Austin made her mark with a fine (11-8, 5-11, 11-8, 11-6) win over Melanie Bonnett whilst Frances Hutt defeated Annabel Sweeney (11-8, 11-2, 11-9) and Jacqueline Smith beat Kath Little (11-5, 11-7, 7-11, 11-9).

The Mens Doubles, typically one of the most open events of the Championships will see the holders and top seeds -Bruce Kettle and Trevor Lloyd face new pairing Paul Davison and Toby McLewin in the Final. Trevor and Bruce saw off James Donald / Joshua Bickles (11-9, 11-9, 11-5) and Babul McLeod / Eric Green (11-5, 5-11, 11-4, 11-4). Babul and Eric had ended the aspirations of Saul Chivers / Harry Chivers (8-11, 11-8, 11-7, 9-11, 11-8). In the other half of the draw Paul Davison / Toby McLewin battled their way past Keith Adams / Lee McHugh (7-11, 15-13, 11-9, 11-4) and in a very testing Semi-Final they played superbly to beat Duncan Taylor / Kevin Read over four ends.

The top seeds Dawn Baldry /Andrea Alleyne are the 2023 Ladies Doubles Champions. They fought back from 2-1 down to beat Melanie Bonnett / Nicola Pippen (7-11, 11-4, 7-11, 11-5, 11-8) in the Final. Andrea / Dawn booked their Final berth by beating Annabel Sweeney / Jackie Treacy 11-4, 11-2, 11-8) in the last four whilst Melanie / Nicola defeated Frances Hutt / Lucy Elliott (10-12, 11-5, 12-10, 11-6) at the same stage.

Annabel Sweeney / Sam Phillips came through unseeded to win the Mixed Doubles with three hard fought wins. They beat Ian Wall / Freya Hart (13-11, 9-11, 11-3, 11-6), top seeds Dawn Baldry / Adi Kamma by a very hard fought (11-9,10-12, 11-9, 12-10) margin and they fought back strongly after a slow start to the Final to win (5-11, 5-11, 11-8, 12-10, 11-4) against Frances Hutt / Paul Sturton. Well played !.    

The Veterans Singles Final will be between the top two seeds – Keith Adams and Duncan Taylor. Keith Adams beat Peter Barrett in the Semi-Final after Peter had beaten Paul Davison at the group stage, Johnny Tendler and Babul McLeod. Duncan Taylor looked down and out in his Semi-Final as he trailed Kevin Read 10-7 in the fifth end. However, he was far from finished and came back to win.

Kevin Read / Keith Adams are the 2023 Veterans Doubles Champions. They came through two stirring battles, beating Paul Davison / Eric Green (11-8, 11-6, 9-11, 7-11, 13-11) in the Semi Final and holders Duncan Taylor / Babul McLeod (7-11, 11-8, 9-11, 11-4, 11-7) in the Final. In yet another five setter Duncan / Babul defeated Simon Jarvis / Peter Barrett (7-11, 11-9, 12-10, 11-13, 11-4) in their Semi-Final.

The Under 40s Singles Final was between the top two seeds and it was second seed Ian Wall who came out on top. Ian Wall beat Lee McHugh (6-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-7) in the Final having beaten Daniel Piggott (11-6, 11-6, 11-9) a round earlier. Daniel Piggott made his mark by ousting Sam Lowman (11-6, 11-6, 11-13, 11-2) whilst Robert Shrimpton defeated Dan Anderson (11-6, 9-11, 8-11, 11-3, 11-5),   and Wiktor Delimat defeated Richard Storey (11-8, 9-11, 11-6, 11-9).

The Under 40s Doubles produced a win for Sam Lowman / Dan Anderson who beat Sam Phillips / Richard Storey in the Final (11-9, 11-6, 11-3) having beaten Robert Shrimpton / Wiktor Delimat )11-9, 11-9, 15-13) a round earlier.

A high-class Junior Boys Singles event meant that players of the standard of James Donald, Aidan Lees and Harrison Hill could not progress beyond the Quarter Final stage. The Final, which will deservedly be played on Finals Night will be between top seed, Harry Chivers, aged 16 and Toby McLewin (aged 17). Harry beat Josh Bickles (11-8, 9-11, 11-9, 11-8) in the Semi-Final whilst Toby defeated Saul Chivers (11-6, 11-8, 6-11, 11-5). Saul had been pushed very hard by the hugely promising Harrison Hill before he won (11-6, 7-11, 11-5, 7-11, 11-4). Toby McLewin beat Aidan Lees (11-6, 11-6, 11-8) at the Quarter Final stage.

There was further success for Toby McLewin / James Donald who won the Junior Doubles. Their opponents in the Final ?. You probably guessed correctly – Harry and Saul Chivers. Toby and James cane out on top (11-9, 11-6, 11-7).

Alesha Ellis-Austin won the Junior Girls Singles title. She beat Francesca Hart (8-11, 11-8, 11-5, 11-6) in the penultimate round and top seed Annabel Sweeney (11-7, 11-8, 11-7) in the Final. Annabel boked her place in the Final by beating Lucy Eliott (8-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-5).

Top prospect Aidan Lees won the Under 15 Singles title with a series of 3-0 wins. He beat Damon Chow (11-5,11-2, 11-3) Pav Srinivasmurthy (11-4, 11-4, 11-5), Harrison Hill (11-9, 11-9, 11-6) and in the Final, Dion Fernandes (11-5, 11-8, 11-2). Dion Fernandes came through two five setters. It was (11-5, 1-11, 11-9, 3-11, 11-5) against Oscar Hutt and (11-13, 11-7, 8-11, 11-9, 12-10) against Oliver Martin.

Another top prospect -Harrison Hill duly won the Under 13 Singles. He beat Joshua Freeman (11-5, 11-5, 11-9) and in the Final, Charlie Ware (11-8, 11-7, 11-4).  Ben Robinson fought his way to the Semi-Final with wins over Noah Middleton (11-9, 12-14, 11-5, 11-9) and Gil Martins (6-11, 11-4, 12-10, 11-5) before missing out to Charlie Ware (5-11, 9-11, 4-11).

The Handicap Singles Final was won by Oscar Hutt (handicap of 35) who beat Aidan Lees (handicap of 55) in the Final, 22-20, 21-15. Oscar was hard pushed to see off his mother – Frances (handicap of 44) (21-18, 16-21, 21-18), but that match aside he progressed with 2-0 wins over- Jamie Elliott (55) (21-17, 21-14), and Alan Scammell (57), 21-12, 21-8. Aidan Lees left a whole host of players in his wake, beating Alex Ware (48) (21-13, 21-15), Robert Shrimpton (70), (21-13, 21-4), Cleon Fernandes (46), a real test, this one (7-21, 21-18, 21-16) and Sanjay Saptarshi (21-15, 21-10), an indication if any was needed, just how much improvement Aidan has made recently.

Peter Davenport / Alesha Ellis-Austin forged a very solid partnership to win the Handicap Doubles. Peter’s steady, consistent game combined with Alesha’s big hitting meant they were rarely in trouble. They left Denis Crapnell / Richard Storey, Jackie Treacy / Simon Jarvis, Lee McHugh / Oliver Martin, Jamie Elliott / James Donald trailing in their wake and they beat Dawn Baldry / Cleon Fernandes in the Final.

New events this year – the Bat & Chat Singles and Doubles were both were well contested and well received. The Bat & Chat Singles event was played on a Handicap basis and Dave Deller captured the title with a 11-4, 19-17, 11-6 Final win over Simon Hacker. The Bat & Chat Doubles Final couldn’t have been closer and the title went to Tony Berman and Mark Gowers who beat Ian Leff and Shirley Pitt (5-11, 11-8, 11-4, 4-11, 16-14) in the Final. Mark enviously looked as fit as when he ran for Chelmsford Athletics Club some 40 years ago whilst Shirley was cheered on by husband Mike and sons Ryan and Adam, well known to all League players.  

Sunday’s play commenced with the Divisional Singles and  Paul Sturton came through a strong field to win the Dvision two Singles title. Denis Crapnell ended the hopes of top seed Sanjay Saptarshi (4-11, 11-8, 11-9, 6-11, 11-9). Paul Sturton beat Sam Phillips 11-6, 9-11, 11-8, 9-11, 11-9) and then he eclipsed Denis Crapnell (11-5, 11-9, 11-3). Paul Sturton defeated Victor Chan (11-9, 11-8, 3-11, 11-4) in the Semi Final and Ian Whiteside, the second seed (11-8, 11-8, 11-6) in the Final. Ian Whiteside had booked his Final appearance with a last gasp (12-10, 7-11, 7-11, 11-7, 11-9) Semi-Final win over Chris Buer. A round earlier Chris Buer had needed five games to beat Mark Allaway (7-11, 12-10, 11-8, 8-11, 11-6).

Chris Buer came into his own in the Division three singles. He beat Jamie Elliott (11-8, 12-10, 11-6), Richard Baxter (11-5, 11-6, 11-4), Alan Scammell (11-9, 11-7, 11-9) and in the Final he defeated Denis Crapnell 3-2 (11-8, 3-11, 11-5, 5-11, 11-1).

Jamie Elliott is the Division four Singles Champion. He defeated Alex Ware (10-12, 13-11, 11-5, 12-10) in a hard fought Semi Final and he defeated Farooq Ahmed (11-8, 11-8, 11-3) In the Final. Farooq Ahmed saw off Cleon Fernandes (11-9, 11-6, 5-11, 15-13) after a hard fought Semi-Final whereas Cleon Fernandes had defeated Jacqueline Smith (9-11, 11-6, 7-11, 11-6, 11-4) a round earlier.

Alex Ware dominated in the Division five Singles. He beat Vishnu Surendran (11-2, 11-7, 11-6), Phil  West (8-11, 11-7, 11-9, 11-5) and he annexed the title by beating Steve Martin in the Final (11-9, 11-8, 11-2). Steve Martin came through his Semi-Final, beating Jacqueline Smith over five ends, (11-6, 9-11, 11-7, 5-11, 11-3.

Keith Adams, retained his unbeaten record in the main Singles events by winning the Over 50s Singles. His run through to the Final was relatively smooth and he beat David Parker (11-3, 11-6, 11-5), Eric Green (11-3, 11-9, 11-5) and in the Semi-Final – Bruce Kettle (11-8, 11-6, 11-8). In contrast, his Final victory against Trevor Lloyd was a real struggle, and the scores of (6-11, 4-11, 11-9, 14-12, 12-10) tell their own story. Trevor Lloyd won his Semi-Final decisively against Babul McLeod (11-6, 11-6, 11-5).         

Bruce Kettle produced some top draw play to capture the Over 60s Singles title. He excelled in his Semi-Final, beating Trevor Lloyd (11-5, 11-9, 11-9) and was equally dominant in the Final, taking down Babul McLeod (11-8, 11-6, 11-4). Babul came through over five ends in his Semi-Final (9-11, 9-11, 11-2, 11-9, 11-14) against Eric Green. Dave Parker scored one of the wins of the event, toppling Ian Whiteside (11-8, 11-5, 11-7).

Ian Whiteside is the 2023 Over 70s Singles Champion.  It was a different story this time with Ian beating Dave Parker (13-11, 11-1, 11-9) in the Semi-Final and in the Final Ian defeated Johnny Tendler (11-4, 15-13, 11-7).

The Hardbat Singles Tournament is meant to be a fun event to finish the weekend off. It was played as best of three games up to 11 points (with no deuces) and featured numerous lengthy draining rallies. A superb all action Final was contested between Bruce Kettle and Eric Green and it was Bruce who ran out a 15-14, 15-12 winner. A fitting end to the weekend.  

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

It’s that time of year again. The Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Annual Championships are taking place. It’s slightly earlier in the Season this year and it’s back at the plush Anglia Ruskin University, Mildmay Hall, Alan Cherry Drive, Chelmsford, CM1 1QT from Friday 06 January 2022 to Sunday 08 January 2022.  Admission is free and it is hoped that former players will pop in over the weekend to watch.   Tea and coffee will be sold but please bring your own mugs as disposable cups will not be available. The good news is that entries are considerably up this year, at 136 players, which is largely due to the League’s thriving Bat & Chat initiative. Bat & Chat have their own set of competitions.

Finals Night takes place on Monday 16 January 2023 at Old Chelmsfordians TTC, Lawford Lane, Roxwell Road, Chelmsford, CM1 2NS at 19.30 hours.

Here is a look at some of the events that will be taking place. The blue riband event as always is the Mens Singles and the 2022 Winner – Dan Young and the 2022 runner – up Harry Buckle haven’t entered this year. Former winner – vastly experienced ace defender – Duncan Taylor is top seed whilst last year’s Chelmsford Veterans Champion Keith Adams is seeded second. You certainly can’t discount third seeded Kevin Read or no. four seed Lee McHugh and indeed the next four seeds – 5­ – Ian Wall, 6 – Paul Davison, 7 – Babul McLeod or 8 – Eric Green. If you suspect that the younger fast improving players are the ones to watch then the lower seeded players -14 – Toby McLewin, 16 – Harry Chivers and 17 -Saul Chivers could be the ones to look out for.

The holder Dawn Baldry is favourite to win the Ladies Singles with Andrea Alleyne seeded second. Melanie Bonnett and Frances Hutt are seeded third and fourth whilst fast-improving Alesha Ellis-Austin looks to be the most likely non seeded player to make an impact.

The Mens Doubles remains one of the most open events, and it is being played on Saturday morning this year instead of late on the Saturday evening. Holders Bruce Kettle / Trevor Lloyd will face stern opposition from a whole host of pairings – Duncan Taylor / Kevin Read, Keith Adams / Lee McHugh, Babul McLeod / Eric Green, Paul Davison / Toby McLewin, Saul Chivers / Harry Chivers, Simon Jarvis / Ian Wall and Dan Anderson / Sam Lowman.

Last year’s Ladies Champions Frances Hutt and Ella Sach won’t be able to defend their title as Ella is skiing. Frances is joined by fellow Buttsbury player Lucy Elliott whilst another new pairing Andrea Alleyne / Dawn Baldry will be very hard to beat. Nicola Pippen / Melanie Bonnett, winners in 2016 are seeded third with Annabel Sweeney / Jackie Treacy seeded fourth.

The Mixed Doubles is also open and Dawn Baldry will be bidding to win the title with Adi Kamma. They are the top seeds and other pairs to look out for include second seeds Frances Hutt / Paul Sturton, third seeds Andrea Alleyne and James Donald and fourth seeds Deborah Ginn and Dan Anderson. Don’t discount Allesha Ellis-Austin / Harrison Hill either.

The Veterans Singles is restricted to 24 players on what looks like being a busy Friday night. Action commences at 18.00 hours. The quality of the eight seeded players speaks for itself – (1) Keith Adams (2) Duncan Taylor (3) Kevin Read (4) Paul Davison (5) Babul McLeod (6) Eric Green (7) Bruce Kettle (8) Simon Jarvis.

The quality in the Over 50s Singles is equally high. Keith Adams (who looks like being one of the busiest players this weekend), is the holder and the top seed. and he faces stiff competition from (2) Trevor Lloyd (3) Babul McLeod (4) Bruce Kettle (5) Eric Green (6) Ian Whiteside (7) Simon Jarvis (8) Sanjay Saptarshi.

The holder – Trevor Lloyd is the favourite to win the Over 60s Singles and the number of entrants is up considerably in this event. Babul McLeod is seeded no. two whilst the other seeds – (3) Eric Green (4) Bruce Kettle (5) Ian Whiteside (6) John Tendler (7) Trevor Collin (8) John Parodi (9) Gary Copsey will also be bidding for honours.

John Holland will be disappointed that he can’t defend his Over 70 Singles title and in his absence Ian Whiteside and John Tendler are the top two seeded players.

The Junior Boys Singles will see Chelmsford’s impressive Chivers bothers – top seed Harry and second seed Saul go head-to-head with Colchester prospect Toby McLewin. Fourth seeded Josh Bickles and fifth seeded James Donald shouldn’t be discounted either, whilst Charles Donald and Harrison Hill will also be out to make their mark. A point of prestige to the players involved – the Final will again be played on Finals Night.

The Junior Girls Singles is back on the agenda after a two-year absence and credit must go to the Buttsbury Club who have provided three of the five entrants. The event will be played as a Group and Annabel Sweeney, Alesha Ellis-Austin, Francesca Hutt, Lucy Elliott and Freya Hart will all be out  to make their mark.

The standard in the other Junior events is refreshingly high. England no. 53 Cadet Charlie Donald and England no. 71 Cadet – Harrison Hill are the top seeded players at Under 15 and 13 level whilst England no. 82 Cadet Aidan Lees will be a tough nut to crack as well at Under 15 level.

The Junior Doubles should be between the Chivers brothers – Harry and Saul and Toby McLewin and James Donald who play together for Tollsbury A in the Colchester League.

The Under 40 Singles is on the agenda for a second time. It is restricted to players aged between 19 and 39 and the holder Lee McHugh is the favourite. The other seeds are Ian Wall (2), Sam Lowman (3) and Dan Anderson (4) whilst Robert Shrimpton, Paul Sturton, Daniel Piggott, Richard Storey,  Wiktor Delimat and Sam Phillips all look capable of making their mark in a competitive field.

The Divisional Singles have retained their Sunday morning berth. Division two sees Sanjay Saptarshi seeded at no. one with Ian Whiteside seeded no. two. Third seed – Chris Buer, the holder should certainly not be underestimated whilst the other seeds – (4) Rob Shrimpton (5) Paul Sturton (6) Daniel Piggott and (7) Mark Allaway are also capable of making their presence felt.

Chris Buer is the favourite in the division three singles with team-mate John Tendler seeded second. Neil Freeman (3), Richard Baxter (4), Ken Sheard (5) and Malcolm Henstock (6) make up the seeds in this event.

The four seeded players in the division four singles are Farooq Ahmed (1), Alan Dadswell (2). Jamie Elliott (3) and Alex Ware (4) whilst there are five seeds in the division five singles. These are (1) Martin Goddard (2) Alex Ware (3) Graham Naggs (4­) Jaqueline Smith and (5) Philp West.  

,John Wickins – Obituary

Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Life Member Chris Hibbitt has reported –

“The Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League were saddened to learn of the death of John Wickins over the Christmas period.

John was a member of the Writtle Tennis Club for over 50 years and both Wendy and I have been friends with him for all that time and we have played with him in many matches.

He also played in the Chelmsford Table Tennis League for the same period. He did not play for Writtle but for the Chelmsford Table Tennis Club. Many of us, including Brian Cook and Barry Lummis regularly played against him for many years. Norman Hayes, played with him in the 1970s and 1980s and John was still playing this season with his last match being on 29 November 2022.     

He was one of the longest serving players currently registered in the League”.

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

SDTTL Premier Division  It was the week and the result we were all looking out for, the clash of the two title contenders as Thorpe Bay A hosted Rawreth A and it was the home side that came out on top with a quite astonishing 8-1 victory. Rawreth A might not have had their top two performers in Matt Spero and Wanda Syderenko in their ranks on the night, but it was a strong line-up of Yas and Zayd Mauthoor and Charles Sweeney. However, the Rawreth trio were no match for John Poysden, Paul Whatton and Paul Sayer with only Sayer dropping a game to Yas Mauthoor. The result puts Thorpe Bay 8 points clear at the half way stage of the season, which I’m sure will prompt Rawreth into a strong second half in an attempt to reel them back in. Elsewhere there were 6-3 wins for Hockley A and Hadleigh Forum A over Rawreth B and Rayleigh Mill respectively, with Andy Cunningham (Hockley) and Peter Radford (Rayleigh) the only two unbeaten players in those matches. So at the bottom end of the table there are two teams in danger at the halfway stage and both Rayleigh Mill, who to be fair have been ravaged with injury, and Hadleigh Forum A will be looking for a much stronger 2023 in an attempt to stay in the top flight. Div 1 Leaders Invicta A were knocked off their perch this week by second-placed Brand Identity B. The 7-2 home win puts Brand Identity to the top of the pile by the slenderest of margins – one point. Barrie Delf was once again the home side’s hero, winning all his three and talking the Player of the Match award, too. Adam Jackman and Mick Grout each recorded two wins, whilst Steve Marr was Invicta’s best played taking two victories.There was a good evening’s table tennis when Hadleigh Forum B visited Lentern. Every player made a contribution, but Lentern’s ex-Forum player John Tendler took the POM honour for his two wins. He wasn’t alone though, as both the home team’s Gus Heath and Ian Cranstone also recorded braces. In a similar vein, all the Forum team (David Woolmer, Paul Fawell and Mike Tappenden) recorded one each. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the evening was a bonus round of tea and biscuits! Mapledene were too strong for their hosts Canvey A. A Lin Roff hat trick led them to a comfortable 7-2 away win and gave her the POM prize. Charles Yeung and Mike Johnston chipped in with two wins each, whilst Canvey’s Ray Wilson was again their best player, earning both his side’s successes. The match was closer than the score suggests, though. Three rubbers were decided in the fifth and final set, one 8/11, one 11/13 and the other 13/15.There was a Rawreth ‘derby’ this week, when the D team hosted the E team. The youngsters of Rawreth D were taught a bit of a lesson by their more experienced club colleagues. Gary Hartgrove and Trevor Ward both recorded maximums, whilst Colin Clements had two successes. Well done to Jake Nelson, who overcame Colin quite easily in the final contest of the night. Division 2  There were a few surprises in Division 2 this week as league leaders RESSC just avoided defeat for the first time this season scraping home 5-4 against Stanford B, whilst promotion hopefuls Wakering were surprisingly beaten by the same score by a youthful Hullbridge B side. Not being unkind to Rawreth F, but perhaps the biggest surprise of the week was that firstly, they managed to get a full team out and, secondly, they thrashed Canvey B 8-1! Turning to the Rawreth F /Canvey B match first of all, it’s fairly well documented how Rawreth F have, through no fault of their own, fallen behind in their games due to the vagaries of the fixture list and secondly, despite a large squad to call on, they have still struggled to get their best players out together. All that changed this week as Simon Neale, Mike Hayes and Jan Thorpe steamrollered Canvey B winning the first four games without dropping a set, led 6-0, and having conceded a point when Trevor Hayes beat Jan, eventually won 8-1. All this against a team sitting fourth in the table! It will be interesting to see just what sort of an impact they could make if they can consistently field this or a similarly strong team. Runaway leaders RESSC came within a whisker of defeat against Stanford B as they found themselves 4-1 down before fighting back to 4-4 leading to a final match showdown between Rob Salvage and Bob Skews. Both players were unbeaten at that stage and Rob must have been hoping he was going to clinch his hat trick as he led 2-0 winning 11/7, 11/8 but only to find Bob was in no mood to pass up his own chance of staying unbeaten. Slowly but surely, he drew level winning 12/10, 11/9 and then finally edged home 11/9 again to clinch the match. Kevin Smart and Ron Coutts were the other points winners for RESSC, whilst Mark Downey and John Handscombe did similarly for Stanford. If third placed Wakering were aware of RESSC’s struggles and hoping to take advantage when they played lowly Hullbridge A, they were soon brought down to earth as youngsters Jack Riley and Evie Knaapen chalked up some excellent wins to clinch a surprise 5-4 win. It was all down to the last match of the evening again as young Jack took on Stewart Mills, and it went all the way to the fifth set before Jack ran out a convincing 11-4 winner. Jack had already beaten Paul England and also clinched another five-set win against Paul’s son Zac, and he was backed up by Evie who beat Paul and Stewart but lost to Zac. There was no joy for Debbie O’Neill of Hullbridge. This win pushes them up a place in the table and shows what a force they could be in the league this season. Hadleigh Forum C cemented their position of second in the table with a 6-3 defeat of Runnymede. Mark Everard finished POTM winning all his games with support from Graham Farmer, two wins, and one from Tony Mace. There were no less than five, five setters, on the night but four of those finished up being won by Forum. Andrew Humphris did best for Runnymede winning two games and losing in five to Mark with just one win for Phil Digby and, surprisingly, no wins for Dmitry Kisil. Division 3  Three matches to report on this week. Steve Lennox and David Barnes led the way with maximums for Invicta B in a 7-2 win against Stanford C.  Sarah Ball with the extra point.  Mention should be made of Stanford skipper Mark Farley who came close in two five-setters before losing out 11-9 and 12-10 in the final end to David and Sarah respectively.  Vaughan Chambers and Peter Moxham were the point winners for Stanford. A good team performance by Hockley E as they overcame Rawreth G by 6-3.  Two wins each for Graham Gregory, Ellis Marley and Hermann Maier doing the damage for the home side.  Ellis Hartopp was the best player on the night for Rawreth with wins over Hermann and Graham.  Ellery Pearson picked up the other point with a win over Ellis Marley. Megazone kept up their pursuit of Hockley D at the top of the table with a 6-3 win over a two-man Hullbridge B.  Joe Bennett, Steve McQuillan and Amar Al-Soufi all recorded victories over Jeff Gritzman, but none of the three could get the better of hat-trick hero, Alex Bowden, although Amar came close before eventually coming up short at 8-11 in the 5th set.

Southend Premier Division  League leadersThorpe Bay A led the way this week with a 9-0 win over Brand Identity A. Mark Stones, Paul Whatton and Paul Sayer all undefeated. Rivals Rawreth A had a 7-2 win over Hockley A with Matt Spero having a great night, winning all 3 matches. Andy Cunningham had a good evening for the visitors, beating Yas Mauthoor and Kevin Read. Thorpe Bay B had a good 8-1 win over Hadleigh Forum A with Kieran Skeggs and Keith Willett gaining hat tricks. The final match saw a close encounter between Rayleigh Mill and Rawreth B, with the Millers just edging it 5-4. Duncan Taylor gaining a hat trick with Arron Chandler gaining a brace for the home side. Division 1  The only game this week not to end up as a 5 – 4 win was the visit of Hadleigh Forum B to Canvey A. This resulted in a 7-2 Forum win, thanks to a Mick Tappenden hat trick and two each for David Woolmer and Anthon Ranjit-Singh. Canvey’s Peter Cray and Joanne Hills won one victory each. The unluckiest team of the week must be Rawreth D on their visit to Hockley C. Despite only having two players (yet again!) they almost pulled off a shock win thanks to a POM performance by Justin Jeffery which included a five-set win over Tarun Goel, coming back from 2-1 down. Hockley edged home 5-4 though, thanks to wins by Tarun and Harry Sawford over Jake Nelson. However, Jake got his first win of the season by beating the veteran Paul Strutt in four sets. Brand Identity B edged a close home fixture against Hockley B 5-4, although Hockley’s Dan Patynski will be disappointed to be on the losing side after his maximum gave him the POM award. Two wins apiece from Jenny Harrison and Mick Grout, together with a single victory for Adam Jackman, gave the match to the home side. Dennis Squirrell got Hockley’s other win. A hat trick from Rawreth E’s Garry Hartgrove saw his side to a 5 – 4 win away at Lentern. Mike Hayes and Gary McCarthy got the other points. Two wins from John Tendler and one each from Ian Cranstone and Gus Heath were just not quite enough for the home side. Invicta A’s Lee Marson had an unbeaten evening at Mapledene. With the sides level at 4 all, Lee’s win over the home captain Andy Seaman in the last action of the night, sealed the win for the league leaders Invicta. Tony Ayliffe and Steve Marr added one apiece for them, whilst Lin Roff got two and Andy and Dawn Baldry gained one victory each for Mapledene. Division 2  The top three teams in the division were all in action this week and whilst RESSC and Hadleigh Forum C both ran out 9-0 winners. Wakering dropped a couple of points whilst beating Stanford B 7-2. This means that Hadleigh and Wakering are joint second with exactly the same points but now 11 points behind RESSC all having played 6 games. Bob Skews just took the POTM for RESSC as he, Mike Worship and Richard Gill eased past the Selbourne side of Richard Reibold, Jenne Siebolt and Andy Roff. Jenne almost grabbed a consolation win against Richard leading 2-1 before succumbing in five close sets. Other than that, it was fairly plain sailing for the league leaders. There were a couple of surprise defeats for Wakering’s father and son Paul and Zac England in their match against Stanford. Zac lost the first match of the evening to John Handscombe, only his second win of the season, and then dad Paul went down in five sets to Mark Downey after leading 2-1. There were no slip up’s however from Stewart Mills whose hat trick won him the POTM award and ensured a comfortable win overall for Wakering. Hadleigh Forum’s 9-0 trouncing of Rawreth F saw eight matches finished in three sets with only Bradley Nunn’s game against Mark Everard going beyond that. Although Bradley won the first set and then levelled the match at 2-2, he lost the fifth and with it Rawreth’s last chance of a consolation point. The occasion was marked by the return to action of our esteemed chairman Ken Field after an absence of four years, so welcome back Ken but probably not a night to remember. Tony Mace and Graham Farmer made up the winning Hadleigh team. Canvey B remained fourth in the table after a 6-3 win away at Runnymede, but it was the home team’s Phil Digby who took the POTM honours winning all his games in straight sets. Two wins each therefore for the Canvey team of Des Duffield, Terry Giddens and Kevin Walsingham. Andrew Humphris came close to adding an additional point for Runnymede losing out in five sets to Kevin in the final game of the evening. Division 3  Alex Deacon led the way for Hullbridge ‘B’ with a fine maximum in his team’s 5-4 win at Stanford ‘C’.  He was well supported by Max Mayo who recorded two wins and who was only denied a hat-trick of his own by Stanford’s Peter Moxham who got the better of him at 12-10 in the final set of their match.  Peter also recorded a win over Jeff Gritzman, as did his team-mates Randy Santiago and David Arnett. There was another close match when Hockley ‘E’ took on Hadleigh Forum ‘D’.  The scores were tied at 4-4 when Hermann Maier took on Forum skipper Jean Catley.  Jean started strongly, taking the first two sets, but Hermann recovered well to win the next three and win the game and the match for his team by 5-4.  Dean Johnson put in an unbeaten performance for Forum but had to work hard to overcome Alwine Jarvis and Graham Gregory, both in five sets Hockley ‘D’ strengthened their position at the top of the league with a 7-2 victory over Canvey ‘C’. Player of the match, Tony Molisso, led the way with a maximum, ably supported by Neal Klyman and Jeremy Giffin, who both scored a double.  Trevor Hayes scored both points for Canvey, but it was a blank night for Che Martin and Stephen Parker.The match between Invicta ‘B’ and Rawreth ‘G’, due to be played at the MegaCentre, had to be postponed because the venue was unavailable.

There were only three first division scorecards this week to report on in the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League, but there was no shortage of top-class action. James Donald took top billing as Chelmsford A beat Danbury B 6-4 with a superb hat-trick of wins. He beat Matt Stringer (16-14, 11-8, 8-11, 11-9), Sam Lowman (1-11, 11-7, 12-10, 11-4) and Ian Wall (4-11, 3-11, 11-9, 19-17, 11-2). Harry Chivers won twice and this included a last gasp (12-10, 11-5, 4-11, 6-11, 15-13) victory over Sam Lowman. OCA A stay top, a massive 16 points clear of Danbury C. Mark Mulley and Paul Lucas were both undefeated as they ran out 8-2 winners against Chelmsford B. This was a surprisingly quick match, with nine of the ten games decided 3-0.  Second placed Danbury C were a player short against Danbury A and lost heavily 9-1. Eric Green and Bruce Kettle both scored fine wins over Paul Davison with Eric winning (11-2, 9-11, 5-11, 13-11, 11-9) and Bruce triumphing (11-7, 11-9, 11-8). Davison hit back by beating Chris Penrose (13-11, 11-1, 14-16, 19-17).        

Danbury E scored an eye catching 10-0 win over Writtle B in division two. Tony Forster, Neil Want and Tim Cramphorn dominated with Neil Want beating Phil Smith (11-9, 10-12, 7-11, 12-10, 11-9) in the closest game of the evening. Galleywood A stay top and they overcame the handicap of being a player short to beat Chelmsford D 7-3. The eye-catching form of James Hicks (89 %) and Gary Brignall (86 %) was very much in evidence.  Chelmsford C scored their third win of the Season, a good one as well, beating the higher placed Galleywood B 7-3.  Chelmsford won all five games which went to a fifth end, with Mark Allaway leading the way with three hard-fought wins. Mark beat Gary Copsey (11-13, 11-9, 5-11, 11-8, 12-10), Mark Glenister (6-11, 10-12, 11-8, 11-8, 11-8) and Bryn Thomas (11-4, 11-3, 10-12, 13-15, 11-7). Hatfield Peverel A ran out 6-4 winners against Maldon A.  Gareth Davies impressed for Hatfield Peverel. He beat Colin Napper (11-3, 11-7, 10-12, 6-11, 12-10) and Hamish Innes (4-11, 11-5, 12-10, 6-11, 12-10). No single player remained undefeated in the match between OCA B and Writtle C.  However, Writtle C came out on top 7-3 – with John Webber, Gary Ward and John Parodi all winning twice. Trevor Carter impressed, beating Gary Ward (11-5, 13-15, 11-8, 11-6).

Division three leaders Danbury F scored their eighth win of the Season and their 7-3 victory over Writtle D gives them 78 points. John Tendler (12 wins out of 12 – 100 %) was unbeaten for Danbury whilst Malcolm Henstock made his mark for Writtle. His two wins included an excellent (11-8, 7-11, 11-9, 11-9) victory over Chris Buer. OCA D scored a fine 7-3 win over the higher placed Danbury K. Richard Baxter led the way with a hat-trick. Charlie Donald also annexed a hat-trick for Chelmsford E but that wasn’t enough to prevent Writtle E winning 6-4. Ian Hockley defeated Dave Parker after a close encounter (13-11, 12-14, 11-9, 10-12, 11-6). Team-work, in this case two wins for Peter Hance, David Meah and Dave Marsh enabled Danbury H to beat Hatfield Peverel B 7-3. Neil Freeman proved to be a major stumbling block and he remained undefeated.

Buttsbury A picked up two wins in division four beating Hatfield Peverel D 10-0 and Chelmsford H 7-3. Kevin Willis, Gary Carr and Alex Ware were all undefeated against Hatfield Peverel D. Chelmsford  H were a tougher proposition and Cleon Fernandes defeated all three Buttsbury players; beating Kevin Willis (5-11, 11-8, 11-6, 12-10), Frances Hutt (11-7, 11-7, 11-8) and Jamie Elliott (4-11, 2-11, 11-1, 11-4, 11-7). Buttsbury A trail Danbury L by two points but have a match in hand. It was honours even between Danbury M and Galleywood G. Colin Blore won his three singles for Galleywood and he defeated Paul Thirkettle (11-7, 11-7, 7-11, 11-6), Roy Gandy (11-7, 11-7, 11-8) and Tim Pulham (11-7, 11-3, 11-6). Fast improving Harrison Hill (20 wins out of 21 – 95 %) looks to have outgrown this division and he was joined by Alisha Ellis-Austin in wining his three singles as Chelmsford G beat OCA F 8-2. Alisha impressed by beating Stuart Wintle (15-13, 9-11, 11-9, 11-7). Danbury L stay top but they struggled to beat OCA E 6-4. Rob Kneale (11 wins out of 12 – 92 %) won his three singles, but the Old Chelmsfordians side hit back with three five game victories. Farooq Ahmed made his mark with a fine (6-11, 11-9, 12-10, 11-13, 11-7) win over Dave Powell.

The top two teams – Highwood A and Danbury N met in division five and the match fittingly finished tied at 5-5.  No one player remained undefeated and no one went home empty handed. Highwood’s Melanie Bonnett and Danbury’s Steve Martin and Graham Naggs all won twice. Steve Martin was involved in three five setters. He beat Nicola Pippen (11-6, 8-11, 11-8, 4-11, 11-9) and Keith Fitz-John (11-9, 5-11, 10-12, 11-9, 11-8) but he missed out against Melanie Bonnett (1-11, 5-11, 11-7, 11-8, 5-11). Buttsbury B drew 5-5 with Writtle F. Lucy Elliott won her three singles; her first hat-trick. She beat Jo Hart (11-8, 11-8, 11-6), Ron Tam (11-9, 9-11, 12-14, 11-9, 11-3) and Paul Aarons (7-11, 11-6, 9-11, 11-9, 11-8). Highwood B ran out 8-2 winners against Galleywood D who paid the price for being a player short. Roger Patient and Dave Cockrell were both undefeated for the Highwood team.  Danbury N returned to winning ways, beating Hatfield Peverel F 10-0. Norman Hayes (in his first match of the Season), Graham Naggs and Steve Martin carried all before them. Hatfield Peverel E beat the team immediately above them – Writtle F 7-3. Phil West and Davina Brazier both scored hat-tricks. Davina beat Ron Tam (9-11, 12-10, 4-11, 11-7, 11-8) in the pick of the night’s action.

Buttsbury Bears secured their seventh win of the Season in Junior division 1A, beating Buttsbury Bulldogs 4-1. Callum Walker won his two singles whilst Lucy Elliot was on target for the Bulldogs. She beat Joseph Hutt (11-3, 11-8, 9-11, 8-11, 11-8). However, the Bears were well beaten, 4-1 by Chelmsford Lions. Luka Ha and Pavanaj Srinavasmurthy were both undefeated for Chelmsford Lions. Pavanaj scored two five end wins. He beat Callum Walker (7-11, 11-9, 9-11, 11-9, 11-5) and Joseph Hutt (12-10, 8-11, 9-11, 11-8, 11-8). Buttsbury Bears top the table with 26 points from eight games. There’s clearly plenty still to play for in this division.     

Buttsbury Bees lead the way in Junior division 1 B, and they beat Chelmsford Cougars 4-1. Charlie Ware won his two singles as well as a hard fought doubles encounter. Ware and Noah Middleton pipped Joshua Freeman and William Guilloux (7-11, 8-11, 11-8, 11-5, 13-11).  Chelmsford Antelopes (Gill Martins and Ben Robinson) were 4-1 winners against Buttsbury Bats. The clash between Gill and Vivaan Babbar was a hard fought affair with Gil winning (11-5, 11-5, 5-11, 9-11, 11-9). 4-1 was again the scoreline as Buttsbury Bats beat Buttsbury Beavers 4-1. Torsten Greenan was unbeaten for the Bats side whereas Vivaan Babbar was on target for the Beavers defeating Thomas Lewis (6-11, 12-10, 6-11, 11-8, 12-10). Chelmsford Cougars beat Danbury Griffins 3-2 although Alex Wilson won twice for the Danbury side. Wilson beat Atharv Srivastava (11-7, 6-11, 11-5, 13-11) and William Guilloux (8-11, 11-9, 11-5, 11-7).                   

All players are again reminded that the 2022/3 Chelmsford Closed Table Tennis Championships take place at Anglia Ruskin University, Mildmay Hall, Alan Cherry Drive, Chelmsford, CM1 1QT from Friday 06 January 2023 to Sunday 08 January 2023. The closing date for entries is Saturday 24 December 2022. There are various new events this year so players are requested to check the entry form closely to ensure they don’t miss out on events they are eligible for.

Entry forms have been distributed and the link is below

https://forms.gle/aPPaJ22umCYVWwK56

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

The Essex senior team are back in the Premier Division clinching promotion by the narrowest of margins after the latest round of league matches were played over the last weekend in November. The successful team was made up of Umair Mauthoor (captain), Tony Halling, Ralph Pattison, Maliha Baig and Mabel Shute.

Essex finished level on points with Norfolk both teams winning six out of their seven matches the other game being a draw between the two rivals. They won promotion by virtue of set score finishing with a 53-17 aggregate compared to a 50-20 score for Norfolk. To underline just how close the two counties results were their results matched exactly except for the game against Middlesex 2 where Essex won 9-1 and Norfolk won 6-4. The Essex matches finished as follows:-

Essex 7 v Surrey 2nd 2, Essex 9 v Bucks 1, Essex 6 v Suffolk 4, Essex 9 v Middx 2nd 2, Essex 5 v Norfolk 5, Essex 9 v Sussex 2nd 1, Essex 8 v Berks. 2

The stand out result on the day was the 5-5 draw against Norfolk where Essex raced into a 4-1 lead only to see Norfolk slowly peg them back and then finally take the lead at 5-4. This left all the pressure on Ralph Pattison as he took on Chris Cockburn in the final game but, despite a close first set which he won16/14 and then losing the second 11/5, he went on to win the next two sets 11/5 11/7 and clinch the title. He was the only Essex player to win both his games in this match.

Umair Mauthoor and Maliha Baig were the best of our team over the weekend both winning 13 out of the 14 matches they played, whilst Tony Halling won 11 out of 14, and Mabel Shute and Ralph Pattison 8 out of 14.

An extraordinary team effort.

In the Southend Premier Division Rawreth C welcomed Steve Tilson back into the side and his three wins along with maximums from Bruce Kettle and Babul McLeod saw the the overpower Hadleigh Forum A 9-0. The closest Forum came to a win was a 5-set loss for Dave Bassett to Kettle. A second whitewash game in the shape of Thorpe Bay A proving far too strong for a two-man Rayleigh Mill side. Paul Sayer, John Poysden and Mark Stones were in fine form only dropping two legs on the evening to Rob Harris and Steve Maltby. Rawreth A just fell short of a 9-0 victory as they beat Brand Identity 8-1. Yas Mauthoor and man of the match Kevin Read went unbeaten against Simon Jacob, David Jacob and Steve Muth with Zayd Mauthoor being denied his hattrick by a good 5 set win for Simon Jacob. Another 8-1 scoreline this week came in a very good performance from Thorpe Bay B against a good Irons A side. Gurj Bhambra and Keith Willett were in good form to get the better of Dave Bowles, Richard Brown and John Monk and Kieran Skeggs beating Brown and Bowles but losing out in a tight 5-setter versus Monk. Division 1  Leaders Invicta A consolidated their top position with a 6–3 win at home against Hockley C, thanks to a hard-fought maximum from Tony Ayliffe. All three of his successes came in the fifth set, the closest being 11–9 in the fifth against young Aaryan Vatsa. Tony was assisted by two wins from Lee Marson and one from David Barnes. For Hockley, their team of Aaryan, Oliver George and Brian Bissenden each had one success. Brand Identity B keep up the pressure on the leaders, winning 5–4 away at two-man Rawreth E. Yet again Barrie Delf was unbeaten. The home side’s Gary McCarthy and Garry Hartgrove won two each and were left wondering what might have been if only they’d had a third player. Hadleigh Forum B are in third place, despite losing 6 – 3 at home to Mapledene. Steve Woodley was the visitor’s POM with a hat trick. Andy Seaman added another two and Mike Johnston one. For Forum, Mick Tappenden won two and Anthon Ranjit-Singh one .Stanford Le Hope A recorded their first win of the season overcoming Lentern 5 – 4 at home. There were no maximums, but two wins apiece for Saad Abdullah and Pat White, with a single from Peter Weatherall, got Stanford over the line. Ian Cranstone and Peter Lucraft won two each for Lentern A but a Tarun Goel hat trick proved the difference between Hockley B and Canvey A. Home side Hockley also had two wins from David Colwill to thank for a 5 – 4 victory. Ray Wilson was Canvey’s best player, winning two, whilst Peter Cray and Lee McGonagle got one each. Division 2.  Just two games to report on again this week but significant for different reasons.The first was the top of the table clash between Wakering and RESSC and if anyone doubted RESSC’s potential to win this league then that doubt has surely been allayed. Their multi-talented team of vastly experienced players brushed aside second placed Wakering 7-2 with only Zac England providing the resistance beating Richard Gill and Ron Coutts. Otherwise, Richard and Ron and player of the match Mike Worship were rarely troubled albeit Mike was taken to five sets by Paul England. With five games played RESSC are now nine points clear of Wakering and already odds on to win the division.The second match was between mid-table Selbourne and bottom of the table Rawreth F. Although still bottom after a narrow 5-4 win they are in fact unbeaten having won just the two games they have played. This in no small part to the machinations of the fixture list which meant they had no games at all for the first four weeks. Rawreth do, in fact, have a potentially strong squad but their players commitments in other leagues will ultimately determine their success in this one. On the night they were forced to field just two players, Alan Dadswell and Mike Hayes, and they proved just too strong for the Selbourne team of Andy Roff, Richard Reibold and Jenne Seibolt. Mike won all his games in straight sets whilst Alan succumbed just to Jenne in five sets. Strange stats in this division then where the bottom team are unbeaten whilst Selbourne, sitting a healthy sixth, have won just one of their six games. Division 3.  Hockley ‘D’ visited Invicta ‘C’ in what was described as a really good match with some hard-fought games and emerged as 5-4 winners.  A maximum from Jeremy Giffin and a double from Ron Rogerson secured the win for Hockley, but that win was only confirmed in the final game when Jeremy took on Trisha Winter, who was also in search of a hat-trick.  In the end, a straight sets win for Jeremy won the match and made it 7 wins out of 7 for his side. Megazone kept up their pursuit of Hockley ‘D’ at the top of the table but had to work hard for their 5-4 victory away at Canvey ‘C’.  Amar Al-Soufi and Jonathan Allen each recorded two wins and there was a single win for Graham Back in his first outing of the season.  A brace apiece from Trevor Hayes and Che Martin was not quite enough for Canvey. Michael Keeble and, player of the match Steve Lennox, both recorded maximums as Invicta ‘B’ were convincing 7-2 winners over Hullbridge ‘B’, Sarah Ball adding the other point.  For Hullbridge, there was a win apiece for Jo Hart and Max Parker, but no luck on the night for Max Mayo Hadleigh Forum ‘D’ could only muster 2 players for their home match with Stanford ‘C’ and a 9-0 defeat was the outcome.  The Stanford trio of Andrew Jessop, Vaughan Chambers and David Arnett were too strong on the night and dropped only one set each.  Although Forum have recruited several new players this season, this is the second occasion that they have only been able to field two players and, as a result, they are dropping dangerously close to the foot of the table. Finally, a couple of results from matches played earlier in the season, both involving the Rawreth Junior side. In the first, their opponents were Invicta ‘C’, where a hat-trick by Trisha Winter was backed up by 2 wins each for Keith Baxter and Jonathan Gould in a7-2 win.  For Rawreth, there was a win each for Ellery Pearson and Mel Jones. Rawreth Juniors other match, against Hullbridge ‘B’, was a much closer affair.  With the scores level at 4-4, Hullbridge’s Blake Stewart, (11) took on Rawreth’s Thomas Chan, (13).  In a close 3-setter, Blake held his nerve to win 11/9, 12/10, 11/9 and record his first win of the season and, more importantly, win the match for his team.  The other points for Hullbridge came from Jeff Gritzman and a maximum from Dan Stewart.  Ellery Pearson and Ellis Hartopp both picked up 2 wins for Rawreth.