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Chelmsford TTC win Chemsford TTL

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Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League first division Champions Chelmsford A completed their Season in style by beating Danbury C 8-2 to give themselves a massive total of 123 points out of 160. Their winning margin of 35 points must be one of the largest on record. Gary Young (87 %) and Daniel Young (85%); the two main-stays of this team were both undefeated. Gary Young enjoyed a quick-fire 11-7, 11-7, 11-5 win over Keith Adams – the player who beat him in this year’s Chelmsford Veterans Singles Final. Chelmsford A had also beaten Danbury B 9-1. Gary Young and Daniel Young were both unbeaten. George Ashley showed up well for the losers with a fine 11-8, 9-11, 11-8, 12-10 win over Kim Shead. Danbury B did better against Danbury A and won 6-4.  Sam Lowman led the way with a hat-trick. With the various teams who were in contention for second place all dropping points it is the hugely promising Chelmsford B (Harry Buckle, Josh Bickles and Charlie Craig) who have claimed second place. In contention throughout the Season they hammered Galleywood A 10-0. Galleywood were forced to field two reserves and it was one of them – the evergreen John Holland who came closest to winning a game. He pushed Charlie Craig all the way before succumbing 11-7, 11-8, 8-11, 8-11, 11-13. Charlie Craig had dismissed Steve Kerns 11-6, 11-8, 11-9.  Harry Buckle led the way with a 70 % record with team-mates Josh Bickles (60 %), Charlie Craig (62 %) and Saul Chivers (52 %) all playing exceptionally well in their first year in the top division. Chelmsford C did well to draw 5-5 with the higher placed Writtle A. Duncan Taylor (96 %) was undefeated for Writtle A whilst Simon Jarvis and Victor Chan both won twice for the Chelmsford side. Simon Jarvis pipped Richard Storey 11-13, 11-9, 7-11, 11-6, 11-9 in the closest game of the night. Without Duncan Taylor Writtle A lost 7-3 against Danbury A. Dave Richardson took his three singles and this included a widely fluctuating 6-11, 11-7, 11-3, 2-11, 11-9 win over Aaron Chandler. Writtle’s Ryan Pitt did well to beat Bruce Kettle (7-11, 11-7, 12-10, 11-9).  

Danbury G are division two Champions with a game left to play. Sanjay Saptarshi (88 %) led them to a 7-3 win over Chelmsford D. Sanjay gave his team a winning start by pipping Harry Chivers (6-11. 11-6, 4-11, 11-8, 13-11) in a very well contested opening encounter. Keith Martin impressed for the losers by getting the better of David Gatheral 9-11, 11-6, 12-14, 11-5, 11-9.   Danbury D ran out 7-3 winners against Danbury E. Chris Buer was undefeated whilst Tim Cramphorn (Danbury E) defeated Ian Cranstone 12-10, 6-11, 8-11, 11-8, 13-11 in the closest game of the evening. In an incredibly close division this result means that Danbury E (82 points) have finished second to bottom. OCA B (84 points) finished sixth and they did well to beat Writtle B (who finished eighth with 83 points) 6-4. Trevor Carter won his three singles for Writtle B beating Phil Smith (12-10 11-8, 9-11, 7-11, 11-3), Trevor Collin (11-8, 7-11, 11-6, 11-13, 11-3) and Paul Sturton (9-11, 13-11, 11-6, 11-9). Hatfield Peverel A (92 points) have a game left to play and a great chance of finishing second. Neil Freeman was on inspired form against OCA C beating Mick Hayes (9-11, 11-4, 14-12, 11-7), David Porter (11-8, 8-11, 11-3, 11-4) and most impressively Mick Richardson (7-11, 11-3, 11-9, 8-11, 12-10).   The win over Mick Richardson gave his side what might be a crucial 6-4 victory. Hatfield Peverel A had not fared so well against Danbury D where they lost 8-2. Ian Cranstone and Chris Buer were both undefeated. Ian Cranstone impressed this time. He beat Neil Freeman (15-13, 9-11, 12-10, 11-9), Martin Archie (9-11, 11-5, 11-9, 11-6) and Gareth Davies (11-8, 10-12, 11-6, 11-7). Teamwork enabled Chelmsford D to beat Writtle B 6-4. Sudheep Kamma, Harry Chivers and Victor Chan all won twice to repel the three wins that Trevor Collin picked up for Writtle B. Trevor Collin had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Sudheep Kamma (9-11, 11-9, 12-10, 11-9).  

Galleywood B claimed the division three title by beating Danbury H emphatically 10-0. They can’t be caught by second placed Maldon A who have two games left. With 16 wins out of 18 (just the two setbacks against Maldon A) Galleywood B – John Holland (89 %), Gary Copsey (83 %) and Mark Glenister (70 %) are worthy Champions. Chelmsford F did well to beat the higher placed Danbury F 6-4. Nikita Tkachuk (72 % and on a fine run of form) led the way with three wins.

Danbury L, who had already been crowned division four Champions were able to rest their leading player – Denis Crapnell against Highwood A. They drew 5-5 which gave them 115 points and an impressive 16 points advantage. Mervyn Perriman led the way with three wins although he had to fight back from 2-1 down to get the better of Melanie Bonnett 8-11, 11-4, 6-11, 11-7, 11-4. Writtle E have finished second and they ran out 10-0 winners against Maldon B. A good all-round team effort over the Season with Ian Hockley (69 %), Malcolm Storey (56 %), Dave Moles (59 %) and Neil Thompson (69 %) all scoring well.  Chelmsford H led by unbeaten performances by Khalid Davis and Cleon Fernandes defeated Galleywood C 8-2. Steve Peacock certainly made his opponents work for their wins. He succumbed (11-9, 4-11, 12-10, 12-14, 8-11) to Khalid Davis and equally closely (11-7, 11-4, 10-12, 9-11, 8-11) against Todd Martin.  OCA E have finished fourth with 89 points. Farooq Ahmed (81 %) was undefeated in their 7-3 win over Highwood B. He had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Dave Cockerill (13-11, 10-12, 11-9, 8-11, 11-9).

Buttsbury are division five Champions. They beat both Chelmsford J (8-2) and OCA F (7-3) which gave them 108 points. Keith Cullen and Alex Ware were both undefeated against Chelmsford whilst Frances Hutt was unbeaten against OCA F. She downed the challenge of Stuart Wintle over five roller coaster games (11-13, 11-4, 11-13, 11-7, 11-2). Hatfield Peverel C (Mick Carter, Richard Drozd and Andy Simmonds) finished second with 105 points. They completed their Season by beating Hatfield Peverel D 9-1. Mick Carter had to dig deep to get the better of Davina Brazier 10-12, 2-11, 14-12, 11-7, 11-6. Hatfield Peverel E also finished their Season on a winning note. Bob Hillis was undefeated against Chelmsford J who they beat 7-3. Jacqui Smith won twice for Chelmsford J. Hatfield Peverel E had previously lost 6-4 to Danbury M. Paul Thirkettle led the way with three wins including a last gasp 11-5, 9-11, 7-11, 11-9, 12-10 victory against Gary Simmons. Danbury N beat Maldon C 6-4 which gave both teams 57 points. Both teams had also won four matches and it was Danbury N who finished ahead by virtue of having the better record of ends won. No fewer than seven games went the distance and no one player stayed undefeated. Conversely no one emerged without one win.  Ella Sach won twice for Maldon whilst Steve Martin and Dave Smith both won twice for Danbury N. Ross Wheeler beat Ron Tam 14-16, 11-9, 10-12, 11-8, 12-10 – a game which had deuce in the fifth written all over it !.

The three Junior Leagues are still in progress. Chelmsford Leopards (Dion Fernandes and Cleon Fernandes) ran out 4-1 winners against Buttsbury Bats in Junior division 2A. They picked up all four singles but missed out 11-4, 8-11, 11-2, 8-11, 8-11 to Oscar Hutt and George Hagland in a hard fought doubles.

The leaders Buttsbury Badgers made it five wins out of five in Junior division 2B. They beat Writtle Racoons 4-2 although Luv Goel was undefeated for Writtle Racoons with wins over Callum Walker (11-8, 11-7, 11-8) and Joseph Hutt (11-5, 11-7, 12-10).

Buttsbury Beavers (Callum Walker and Charlie Ware) ran out 3-2 winners against Chelmsford Eagles in Junior division 2C. Callum Walker was unbeaten getting the better of Aryan Gupta (11-8, 11-5, 11-7) and Atharv Gupta (11-6, 11-8, 11-7).

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League 

    County Coaching, County Juniors, County Seniors, County Veterans, County Vets 60s+, General, Local League News, News

    Big win for Danbury A

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    Danbury A jumped into second place in division one of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League by beating Danbury C 10-0. Danbury C weren’t at full strength and Danbury A took full advantage. Eric Green, Dave Richardson and Babul McLeod powered their way to a 10-0 win. Danbury A are now well placed to finish second. They have 68 points, three more than third placed OCA A, and it is Danbury A who have a game in hand. Galleywood A produced their best display of the Season to beat Chelmsford C 7-3 – a result that lifts them off the bottom. Peter Radford was unbeaten for Galleywood whilst Gary Brignall also showed up well. He beat Wiktor Delimat (14-16, 13-11, 2-11, 11-7, 11-6) and most impressively Simon Jarvis (11-9, 14-12, 11-5). OCA A beat Writtle A 7-3. The brothers Mulley – Matthew and Mark turned in another power-house display and won all seven games. In the pick of the night’s action Arron Chandler pipped Bertie Makoli 11-4, 12-10, 10-12, 8-11, 12-10. Danbury B ran out 6-4 winners against Chelmsford B. Sam Lowman led the way with a hat-trick whilst Dan Anderson impressed as well. He beat Saul Chivers (11-8, 11-8, 12-10) and Josh Bickles (13-11, 11-9, 11-7). Match of the evening, was arguably the high-octane clash between Charlie Craig and Sam Lowman where Sam prevailed 11-8, 6-11, 11-3, 9-11, 13-11.

    Leaders Danbury G scored their eighth win of the Season in division two by beating OCA C 6-4,  and Sanjay Saptarshi again led from the front. He won his three singles. His record of 89 % (32 wins out of 36) is outstanding. David Porter won twice for OCA C and this included a fine 11-6, 9-11, 11-3, 9-11, 11-8 win over David Gatheral. Sanjay Saptarshi showed up well in his third singles powering his way to a 11-3, 11-3, 8-11, 11-3 win over Mick Richardson. Chelmsford D excelled by beating Danbury E 8-2. Harry Chivers (three wins), Victor Chan (three wins) and Sudheep Kamma (two wins) all played well whilst players of the calibre of Danbury’s Tony Forster and Neil Want drew blanks. Harry Chivers was outstanding. He beat Neil Want (9-11, 11-4, 11-4,11-5), Tim Cramphorn (11-8, 13-11, 11-6) and Tony Forster (11-7, 11-6, 11-7).   Team-work saw Writtle C prevail 6-4 against Writtle B. John Webber, Dave Carter and John Parodi all won twice. Dave Carter, playing up from division three performed exceptionally well, beating Phil Smith (11-7, 11-9, 5-11, 3-11, 11-9) and Rod Maclennan (10-12, 11-5, 7-11, 13-11, 11-9).  

    Maldon A, second in division three,  were 8-2 winners this week against OCA D. Hamish Innes and Dawn Baldry were both undefeated. Amanda Hogger won a close encounter12-14, 11-3, 11-9, 9-11, 11-7 against Garry Eames for the losers. Danbury K ran out narrow 6-4 winners against Chelmsford E. No player was undefeated and no one went home empty handed. Dave Parker pipped Peter Hance 2-11, 11-6, 10-12, 11-6, 12-10 in the closest game of the night. Danbury J (Alan Dadswell, Dennis Crapnell and David Meah) dominated against Danbury H, so much so that they won 10-0. Alan Dadswell was pushed in the last game but he eventually eased home 15-17, 11-7, 7-11, 11-7, 11-8 against Dave Hancox. Elsewhere, Chelmsford F – Nikita Tkachuk (three wins), Andy Swales (two wins) and Luke Richardson (two wins) beat Hatfield Peverel B 8-2.  

    The eye-catching performance in division four went to 11 year-old Harrison Hill who made the transition from the Junior League to division four look seamless. He won his three singles for Chelmsford G in their 3-7 defeat against Maldon B. Shirley Carroll, Victoria Farrell and Ella Sach all won twice for Maldon B.  Writtle E led by a trio of wins from Neil Thompson beat Highwood B 7-3. Thompson posted wins against Russell Downton (11-6, 11-4, 11-3), Roger Patient (11-9, 14-12, 8-11, 11-9) and Dave Cockerill (13-11, 8-11, 11-5, 11-5).  The match between Galleywood C and OCA E finished tied at 5-5. Will Goodchild had to pull out all the stops to get the better of David Newman 7-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-6, 16-14. Cleon Fernandes was another player from the Chelmsford Junior League to excel this week. He won his three singles as Chelmsford H edged out Highwood A 6-4. He had quite a battle with Keith Fitz-John before sneaking home 11-7, 10-12, 11-7, 9-11, 13-11.

    OCA F jumped into second place in division five courtesy of their 9-1 win over Maldon C. Stuart Wintle and Bob Francis were both undefeated whilst Mike Morecroft won twice. Morecroft had to work hard for his two successes. He beat Ross Wheeler (4-11, 11-3, 5-11, 12-10, 11-8) and Kym Eames (5-11, 11-4, 11-2, 12-14, 11-8). The other three games in this division were much closer. Hatfield Peverel E beat Danbury N 6-4 in a match where no one player remained undefeated. Hatfield Peverel’s Deb Ginn and Karen Braney and Danbury ‘s Graham Naggs and Jo Hart all won twice. Chelmsford J and Hatfield Peverel D couldn’t be separated. Peter Davenport won his three singles for Chelmsford J and this included a titanic struggle against Kath Little in the first game where he won 11-4, 12-14, 11-7, 10-12, 12-10.  It was honours even as well (5-5) in the match between Danbury M and Hatfield Peverel C. Paul Thirkettle was undefeated for Danbury and Martin Knights chipped in with a 11-6, 11-8, 7-11. 7-11, 15-13 win over Andy Whiley.

    Chelmsford Pumas (Alesha Ellis-Austin and Ben Chivers) were 5-0 winners against Writtle Rattlesnakes in division 2B of the Chelmsford Junior League. Allesha Ellis Austin gave her team a winning start by beating Luv Goel 7-11, 11-9, 12-10, 11-3 in the opening encounter. Buttsbury Badgers beat Chelmsford Jaguars 3-2 although Emilie Guilloux was unbeaten for Buttsbury in her singles. Emilie defeated Oscar Hutt (11-9, 11-3, 11-7) and Harry Hutt (11-9, 5-11, 11-4, 11-8).

    Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League 

      County Juniors, County Seniors, County Veterans, County Vets 60s+, General, Local League News, News, Tournaments

      Daniel Young, 17, is Chelmsford Men’s Singles Champion

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      Daniel Young, 17, was crowned the 2022 Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Mens Singles Champion at Old Chelmsfordians Association on Tuesday evening in front of a large and appreciative crowd which included 10 players from the League’s Bat & Chat Session.  In what was definitely a great evening for the younger players Harry Buckle, also aged 17, was Mens Singles runner-up.

      The opening game featured top seed Duncan Taylor and Daniel Young. Taylor’s cast iron defensive game is often one that Juniors struggle against. This isn’t the case with Daniel Young. Despite falling 0-5 down in the first game he won the next seven points and the first game 11-8. Duncan hit back winning the second game 11-7. Duncan looked to attack more but it was the patient Daniel who eventually ran out the winner 11-8, 7-11, 11-9, 11-7.

      The second game gave the Finals Night audience their first view of Harry Buckle who played Lee McHugh. Harry started nervously but soon settled down. Despite serving into the net at 9-9 he won the first game 12-10. In the second game it was all Harry and he powered home 11-2. The third game was much better for Lee and he won comfortably 11-5. Harry started the fourth end really well and surged into a 5-0 lead, and although Lee fought back to 7-3 and 9-9 Harry sealed victory 12-10. Game, set and match to Harry 12-10, 11-2, 5-11, 12-10.

      The Mens Doubles Final featured two new pairings and it was the Danbury pairing of Trevor Lloyd and Bruce Kettle who emerged as winners 9-11, 11-7, 11-4, 11-9 . After a hesitant first end they dominated and with Trevor Lloyd’s renowned forehand and Bruce Kettle’s pacy backhand calling the shots they looked to be the more likely winners, which they were.

      The three down Singles Final was held over from the weekend and it featured Galleywood team-mates John Holland and Mark Glenister. Mark started the more brightly and he edged the first two games 11-8, 12-10. Was an upset on the cards ?. No, John hit back and forcing his opponent to have to scramble against his superbly executed drop shots he pulled through to win 8-11, 10-12, 11-8, 11-8, 11-6. The last point perhaps captured the nature of this victory. John’s perfectly executed “drop-shot” left Mark floundering.   

      The Under 19 Singles Final featured the same two players who would later contest the Mens Singles Final. It was attack, attack, attack and more third ball attack as Harry Buckle turned in a superb display to beat Daniel Young 11-9, 11-6, 11-4.  

      The Veterans Singles Final featured the 2020 Champion – Gary Young and Keith Adams, surely one of the most improved players in the County in the last five years. Keith’s topspin forehand is devastating on it’s day and he looks to get in at every opportunity. Gary was never far behind and came very close to winning the third end but it was Keith who prevailed 11-9,  11-7, 16-14 to add the Veterans Singles Crown to the Over 50 Singles title he won at the Tournament weekend.

      And so to the main event, the Mens SIngles Final. This time Daniel Young came out all guns blazing and won the first end 11-3. Harry Buckle fought back and won the second end 11-7. Game on.  However, it was Daniel who prevailed and after winning the third game 11-7 he surged clear to win the fourth game 11-4. Not the youngest ever Mens Singles winner but it’s still a magnificent achievement for a Junior to become Mens Singles Champion.

      Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

        County Coaching, County Juniors, County Seniors, County Veterans, County Vets 60s+, General, Inter League, Local League News, News

        Chelmsford Closed Championships -Unseeded Harry Buckle fights his way to mens singles semi final

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        In one of the more “open” Championships in recent years seedings didn’t count for much in the mens singles at the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Closed Championships which were played at St John Payne School over the weekend. Three seeded players failed to win their groups. Trevor Lloyd missed out against Josh Bickles, whilst Eric Green lost against Harry Buckle and James Liddiard lost to Dan Pigott. The shocks continued into the knock out stages.

        Top seed Duncan Taylor, who not only played on Friday night in the Veterans events but travelled to St. Neots in Cambridegshire to play for Essex Veterans first team on the Saturday would have had a justifiable excuse if he had lost.  It didn’t effect his performance and he beat Babul McLeod (11-9, 11-9, 11-5), and Matthew Mulley (1-11, 12-10, 13-11, 11-5) to make it to Finals Night.  Matthew Mulley had previously beaten Gary Young (6-11, 11-8, 12-10, 11-1).

        Duncan Taylor will play Daniel Young in the semi-final. Daniel Young beat Martin Archie (11-2, 11-3, 11-7), Bruce Kettle (11-5, 11-6, 11-4) and Mark Mulley (11-9, 12-10, 9-11, 11-9). Mark Mulley had made his mark (no pun intended) by beating Charlie Craig (11-8, 11-6, 6-11, 11-5). Charlie had earlier scored one of the wins of the day (make that the weekend) by ousting James Liddiard (8-11, 10-12, 16-14, 11-9, 11-9).    

        In the bottom half of the draw the up-and-coming attacking players ran riot. Harry Buckle stole the show. Josh Bickles beat Rob Shrimtpon (8-11, 11-7, 11-13, 11-2, 11-4) before losing very narrowly to Harry Buckle (11-7, 13-15, 9-11, 10-12). Harry Buckle had previously defeated Ken Sheard (11-8, 11-8, 14-12) and Daniel Piggott (11-6, 11-5, 11-6) and with everything to play for Harry Buckle beat Josh Bickles to make it through to Finals Night on Tuesday 15 February 2022 at Old Chelmsfordians Association.

        Harry will play Lee McHugh who had already won the Under 40s Singles on the Saturday. Lee defeated Neil Freeman (11-4, 11-8, 11-4), Steve Martin (11-4, 11-4, 11-3) and Sam Lowman (9-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-9) who he had previously beaten in the Under 40s singles final.  Sam Lowman had excelled and he scored a gem of a win by beating the second seed – Keith Adams 11-5, 14-12, 11-7. 

        The ladies singles has been played to a conclusion and the favourite Dawn Baldry has won the title. She beat Nyree Marsh 11-9, 11-8, 11-8 in the final.  Nyree beat the second seed Frances Hutt in the penultimate round 11-7, 12-10, 12-10 whilst Dawn fought her way past Jacqueline Smith 11-7, 11-5, 11-6.

        The mens doubles will be played on finals night. It didn’t go to plan. Daniel Young/ James Liddiard fought their way past Charlie Craig / Harry Buckle 11-7, 11-8, 11-8 and then in a really nail-biting encounter top seeds Gary Young / Keith Adams 5-11, 11-9, 11-8, 3-11, 12-10. They booked their place in the final by beating brothers -Mark and Matthew Mulley 11-9, 11-7, 7-11, 6-11, 11-4. They will play the third seeds – Trevor Lloyd and Bruce Kettle. Lloyd and Kettle needed five ends to get the better of Dan Anderson / Sam Lowman (5-11, 5-11,11-3, 11-3, 11-5) in their quarter-final and if that wasn’t hard enough they prevailed 6-11, 11-5, 11-8, 11-13, 11-9 after a thrilling semi-final battle against Duncan Taylor / Lee McHugh.   

        The ladies doubles saw Frances Hutt / Ella Sach capture the title at their first attempt. They came out on top 11-6, 8-11, 11-8, 5-11, 12-10 against Shirley Carroll / Dawn Baldry after a really hard-fought encounter. Trailing 10-6 in the decider they must have thought their chance had slipped away but they didn’t give up and they eventually went on to win a thrilling decider12-10.

        The mixed doubles competition has also been completed. Top seeds Harry Buckle / Dawn Baldry are the champions and they beat Lee McHugh / Nyree Marsh 11-8, 11-9, 12-10 in the final. Lee and Nyree had upset the seedings by getting the better of second seeds Paul Sturton / Frances Hutt 11-5, 12-14, 11-9, 9-11, 11-6 a round earlier. Dawn / Harry had been extended to four ends in their semi-final by Adhuna Das / Gary Young (6-11, 11-2, 11-5, 11-6).

        The veterans (O40s) singles final will be played on Finals Night. Holder and top seed Gary Young booked his place in the final by beating Eric Green (11-3, 11-9, 11-4) and Trevor Lloyd (11-8, 10-12, 11-8, 11-3) and he will face Keith Adams in the final. Keith saw off Kim Shead (11-9, 11-6, 11-9) and in his semi-final he fought back strongly from 2-0 down to get the better of second seed – Duncan Taylor – in one of the best matches of the weekend (4-11, 10-12, 11-8, 11-9, 11-8). After a slow start this match became positively gripping and the last few rallies were for the connoisseur !.

        Duncan Taylor took immediate revenge for his Veterans Singles defeat by bouncing back to win the veterans doubles. Paired with Babul McLeod they secured a fine 11-7, 11-9, 11-7 win over the veterans singles finalists – Gary Young / Keith Adams. The fourth seeds Mark Allaway / Kim Shead were beaten by Rod Maclennan / Neil Freeman 7-11, 12-10, 7-11, 5-11.

        Keith Adams, the favourite made no mistake in the over 50s singles. He powered his way past Sanjay Saptarshi (11-8, 10-12, 11-7, 11-8), Babul McLeod (11-9, 11-8, 10-12, 11-3) and in the final he made no mistake against Bruce Kettle (11-8, 11-0, 11-4). Bruce Kettle excelled on this occasion by getting the better of Trevor Lloyd (11-7, 10-12, 13-11, 16-14).  

        Trevor Lloyd came through a strong field to capture the over 60s singles. He disposed of Graham Naggs (3-0), Ian Whiteside (3-0), Trevor Collin (3-0) and he beat Bruce Kettle 11-8, 5-11, 11-5, 7-11,11-7 in a fluctuating final. Trevor Collin had excelled, taking out Babul McLeod 3-0 whilst Babul had ended the hopes of John Holland 3-2.   

        The over 70s singles is another new event and John Holland completed the full set of titles, having previously won the over 40s singles, over 50s singles and over 60s singles. He beat Ian Whiteside 3-0 after three closely contested games in the final.

        The Handicap Singles is very difficult to predict. A player can seemingly be going well for a few rounds but can perish very quickly if a handicap is just too far out of reach. Arguably the top -rated player in the event – Daniel Young (playing off a handicap of 89) looked good as he powered his way past Phil West (20), Ella Sach (29), Davina Brazier (23) and most impressively Andrea Alleyne (47). He met his match against Roger Slade (40) in the semi-final who won 18-21, 21-12, 21-17.  Slade had also seen off Rev Matthews (60), Sudheep Kamma (63), Mervyn Perriman (67) and Denis Crapnell (58). Nyree Marsh (30) dominated the bottom half of the draw beating Vineeth Kamma (60), Josh Bickles (88), Saul Chivers (73) and in the semi-final Dan Anderson (76) 21-15, 19-21, 21-18. Dan Anderson had also impressed with wins over Harry Buckle (87), Robert Shrimpton (77), Lee McHugh (90) (a close one this: 21-14, 16-21, 22-20) and Deb Ginn (23) before he lost to Nyree. In the final Nyree made no mistake by beating Roger 21-5, 21-17.  

        If the Handicap Singles is difficult to predict it is nigh on impossible to select a winner in the Handicap Doubles. Not only do the handicaps come into play but certain styles are more compatible than others. Dawn Baldry and Cleon Fernandes (with a combined handicap of 44) eventually emerged as winners beating Roger Slade / Lee McHugh (combined handicap of 65) quite convincingly 21-9, 21-9 in the final.

        Top seed Lee McHugh (who had an excellent weekend) won the first of the new events – the Under 40s Singles. He beat Aaron Chandler (11-9, 9-11, 11-7, 11-8) and Sam Phillips (14-12, 11-4, 11-5) to book his final appearance and he defeated Sam Lowman – the second seed, in a free-flowing final (11-9, 12-10, 9-11, 11-3). Lowman had to work hard to get the better of Rob Shrimpton (7-11, 12-10, 11-8, 11-8) and Dan Anderson (11-9, 11-6, 14-12).

        The under 19 singles will be played on finals night and it replaces the defunct under 21 singles. Dan Young and Harry Buckle who both played so well in the mens singles will contest the final. Dan Young beat Saul Chivers 11-5, 11-5, 9-11, 11-7 in his semi-final whilst Harry Buckle turned it on to defeat Charlie Craig 11-5, 11-7, 11-8 at the same stage. Saul Chivers ended the aspirations of Josh Bickles 2-11, 11-9,11-4, 11-7.    

        The under 19 doubles was played on a round robin basis and Harry Buckle and Charlie Craig came out on top.

        Ben Chivers is the 2002 Under 15 singles champion. He claimed the title by beating Alesha Ellis-Austin 11-7, 8-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-4 in the final. Felix Reeve and Oliver Martin were the losing semi-finalists.

        The division two singles is traditionally one of the more open events. The top seed has often failed to live up to expectations. Not this year.  The favourite – Chris Buer came out on top. He beat Ken Sheard, Richard Baxter and Sanjay Saptarshi 13-11, 17-19, 11-7, 12-10 in a very well contested final. Richard Baxter made his mark in no uncertain terms beating Hamish Innes and Saul Chivers. Sanjay Saptarshi’s run to the final saw him see off Eamon Hall, John Holland and Daniel Piggott.    

        The division three singles final will be between John Holland and Mark Glenister and it will be played on Finals Night. John Holland used all of his experience to beat Nikita Tkachuk 11-7, 12-10, 11-9 and he will play Mark Glenister who scored a superb 11-9, 12-14, 9-11, 12-10, 11-7 semi-final win over Hamish Innes, a game which lasted close to 45 minutes. Glenister had earlier done well to end the hopes of Sam Phillips (11-3, 11-7, 11-13, 11-9) and Dusan Doszkoty (11-2, 9-11, 12-10, 11-9).

        Denis Crapnell was crowned the division four singles champion. He beat Mervyn Perriman (who had lost to Adi Kamma in his group) 11-9, 11-6, 11-8 and Harry Chivers (12-10, 4-11, 11-5, 11-7) and in the final he powered home 11-4, 11-4, 11-1 against Dusan Doszkoty. Dusan had booked his final place by beating Adi Kamma (11-4, 11-6, 11-8) and Farooq Ahmed (11-7, 11-8, 9-11, 11-8).   

        Bob Hillis is the division five singles champion. He came through closely fought games against Davina Brazier (12-10, 6-11, 11-9, 11-8), Deb Ginn (6-11, 11-9, 11-9, 8-11, 11-7) and in the final he beat Jacqueline Smith (11-9, 11-7, 8-11, 11-9). Jacqueline had beaten Jamie Elliott (8-11, 11-9, 13-11, 12-10) at the semi-final stage. A pleasing feature of this year’s event was just how many of the successful players in the divisional tournaments take part in the League’s Bat&Chat sessions. John Holland, Denis Crapnell, Bob Hillis and Jacqueline Smith all fall into this category.  

        There appears to be “no stopping” Chelmsford A in division one of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League. With James Liddiard (18 wins out of 18) and Gary Young both staying undefeated they beat Chelmsford B 8-2. With a massive 77 points out of a possible 100 they lead second placed Writtle A by a huge 26 points. Writtle A also won 8-2, defeating bottom placed side Galleywood A 8-2. Lee McHugh and Duncan Taylor carried all before them. Ryan Pitt came up trumps against Gary Brignall, winning 5-11, 11-7, 5-11, 11-8, 11-9. Danbury C, have moved into fourth place. Trevor Lloyd led the way as they beat Chelmsford B 6-4. With 86 % Lloyd has been an excellent signing. There were some very close games with Shirish Basant Rai getting the better of Ian Whiteside 11-6, 7-11, 11-8, 18-20, 17-15 after the longest encounter of the week.  OCA A scored their third win on the trot and it isn’t totally inconceivable that they could challenge for the runners-up spot. They beat Danbury C 6-4 after Trevor Lloyd had again won his three singles. Lloyd defeated Mark Mulley 11-3, 8-11, 11-8, 3-11, 12-10 after a widely fluctuating opening encounter.    

        Writtle C have climbed into second place in division two. Gary Ward can’t put a foot (and in his case a powerful back hand topspin) wrong this Season and he again won his three singles as Writtle C beat Chelmsford D 7-3. Harry Chivers won twice for Chelmsford and this included a 9-11, 11-8, 9-11, 11-4, 12-10 victory over John Webber. Chelmsford D were also on the wrong end of a 6-4 defeat against Danbury F. Colin Napper stole the show with three hard fought wins. He beat Vineeth Kamma (11-5, 8-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-8), Sudheep Kamma (13-11, 11-7, 5-11, 7-11, 11-3) and Harry Chivers (11-2, 11-13, 11-7, 6-11, 11-7).   Danbury G edged home 6-4 against Hatfield Peverel A. Sanjay Saptarshi sealed the win for his side after an epic 11-7, 5-11, 6-11, 12-10, 12-10 win over Martin Archie in the last game of the night. OCA B won three five enders to beat Danbury F 7-3. Gareth Joice and Trevor Carter were both undefeated. Trevor Carter had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Ken Sheard 11-13, 3-11, 11-4, 11-5, 11-9 whilst Gareth Joice was equally stretched as he saw off Colin Napper 11-5, 5-11, 4-11, 11-9, 12-10.    

        Leaders Galleywood B showed their strength in division three. They left John Holland out yet they still beat Hatfield Peverel B 9-1. Mark Glenister and Bryn Thomas both bagged three wins. Phil Shippen was on target for the losers with a 11-6, 11-9, 6-11, 11-9 win over Gary Copsey. OCA D did well to beat Danbury J 6-4. Richard Baxter was the architect of this win with three successes. John Robinson pipped Ian Butler 11-6, 9-11, 8-11, 11-1, 17-15. A very hard fought fifth end. Danbury J were in turn on the right side of a 6-4 result against Writtle D. Dave Marsh won his three singles and this included a last gasp 11-4, 9-11, 11-6, 7-11, 12-10 victory against Bob Garson. Writtle D put this result firmly behind them and ran out comprehensive 9-1 winners against Chelmsford F. Malcolm Henstock and Peter Layzell both scored hat-tricks. Henstock was tied at 2-2 against Luke Richardson but he surged home in the fifth end to win 5-11, 11-7, 12-10, 10-12, 11-4. OCA D beat Danbury K 7-3 courtesy of a good team performance. Richard Baxter, Richard Upson and Connor Payne all won twice. Peter Hance impressed for the losers with a 11-8, 11-8, 6-11, 14-12 victory against Richard Baxter. Chelmsford E also won 7-3. The improving Rev Mathews led the way with a hat-trick and he secured his third win by getting the better of Richard Allen 11-4, 7-11, 11-4, 15-13. Dave Powell fought back strongly from 2-0 down to get the better of Joachim Mapes 7-11, 6-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-1

        Danbury L lead the way in division four. Denis Balic and Denis Crapnell were both undefeated in their 7-3 win over OCA E. Denis Balic saw off Farooq Ahmed 11-9, 11-5, 9-11, 9-11, 11-9. Quite a battle. Maldon B (fielding an all-lady line up) emerged as 6-4 winners against Highwood A. Fittingly it was another lady who dominated the action. Melanie Bonnett won her three singles and this included a fine 9-11, 9-11, 11-4, 11-9, 11-8 win over Andrea Alleyne.  Maldon B added another eight points to their total by beating Highwood B. Bryan Speller and Andrea Alleyne were both undefeated this time.

        Division five leaders Hatfield Peverel C ran out 9-1 winners against Danbury N. Mick Carter and Andy Simmonds were both undefeated.  Hatfield Peverel C won the two five setters. Mick Carter beat Graham Naggs 11-5, 11-5, 9-11, 6-11, 11-8 and Andy Whiley beat Steve Martin 11-9, 7-11, 8-11, 11-2, 11-8. OCA F emerged as narrow 6-4 winners against Danbury M.  Stuart Wintle was their match-winner and he beat Paul Thirkettle – the best of the Danbury players – 11-6, 9-11, 11-6, 5-11, 11-5. Another all-lady team, this time – Hatfield Peverel D beat Buttsbury 7-3. Davina Brazier took centre stage with three singles wins. She beat Frances Hutt (11-7, 13-11, 3-11, 11-9), Ray Horton (9-11, 11-3, 12-10, 4-11, 11-8) and Oscar Hutt (11-5, 11-7, 11-7).

        Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

          General, Local League News, News, Tournaments

          Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

          Gallery

          Duncan Taylor out to win Mens Singles title

          A new venue, two new events to contend with; and the same number of entries as last time (105). The Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Annual Championships are back after a year’s absence, at St. John Payne Catholic School, Chelmsford, CM1 4BS (Patching Hall Lane entrance) over the weekend of Friday 28 January 2022 to Sunday 30 January 2022.  Action is scheduled to finish at 18.00 hours on the Sunday evening. A big change this year is that the blue riband event – the Mens Singles will take place on the Sunday. Finals Night will take place on Tuesday 15 February 2022 at the Old Chelmsfordians Association, Lawford Lane. Refreshments – bacon rolls and sausage rolls will be available on the Saturday and Sunday mornings. Players will receive E-Mails relating to their starting times. Admission is free and it is hoped that former players pop in to watch.

          Ace defender Duncan Taylor – the 2018 Champion, is the man to beat in the Mens Singles. He will face stiff opposition from second seed Keith Adams (in his first venture into the Chelmsford tournament), Trevor Lloyd, Mark Mulley, Gary Young, James Liddiard, Lee McHugh and Daniel Young. The other seeded players are Matthew Mulley, Bruce Kettle, Babul McLeod, Sam Lowman, Eric Green and Ian Whiteside. Expect a strong challenge from the up-and-coming Chelmsford Table Tennis Club Junior contingent – Harry Buckle, Charlie Craig, Josh Bickles and Saul Chivers. Group two stands out. Second seed Keith Adams takes on Wiktor Delimat and Charlie Craig. Group seven is equally competitive. Lee McHugh comes face to face with Dan Anderson and Saul Chivers.

          It is difficult to see beyond Dawn Baldry in the Ladies Singles. Frances Hutt is seeded second, but Dawn will be very difficult to beat.  Nyree Marsh, runner up in 2019 will also be out to make her mark.

          Gary Young / Keith Adams are the top seeds in the Mens Doubles and they are due to meet Duncan Taylor / Lee McHugh in the Final. Other pairs who you can’t  discount are brothers Mark Mulley /Matthew Mulley , Bruce Kettle / Trevor Lloyd, Daniel Young / James  Liddiard, Dan Anderson / Sam Lowman and Babul McLeod / Eric Green.  

          Gary Young – the holder, is favourite for the Veterans Singles and he is scheduled to face Duncan Taylor in the Final on Finals Night. Keith Adams and Trevor Lloyd are seeded third and fourth. Young and Adams have paired together and they are expected to annexe the Veterans Doubles where they are scheduled to play Duncan Taylor and Babul McLeod in the Final. 

          The Over 70s Singles is a new event this year. The evergreen Ian Whiteside is the top seed and John Holland is seeded second. John will be bidding to become the first player in the League’s history to win the Over 70s Singles as well as the events he has won in the past – Over 60s, Over 50s and Veterans Singles.

          As befits the demographics of the League, the Over 50s Singles is very strong this year. Keith Adams is seeded no. one with Trevor Lloyd seeded no. two. Bruce Kettle, Babul McLeod, Eric Green, Ian Whiteside and Martin Archie make up the seeded berths.

          Trevor Lloyd will be looking to retain his Over 60s title and he is seeded to play Bruce Kettle in the Final. If all goes to plan Lloyd will play Babul McLeod in the penultimate round and Kettle will play Eric Green.  

          New pairing Harry Buckle and Dawn Baldry are top seeds in the Mixed Doubles and their Finals night opponents are projected to be Frances Hutt and Paul Sturton. Frances and Paul are expected to face Lee McHugh / Nyree Marsh in their Semi-Final whilst Harry and Dawn are scheduled to meet Jacqueline Smith and Robert Shrimpton.

          Shirley Carroll / Dawn Baldry are strong favourites to capture the Ladies Doubles and they are seeded to play Ella Sach / Frances Hutt in the Final.

          The Divisional events have been moved to the Saturday and the division two event looks particularly strong. Chris Buer is the top seed and in a very evenly matched field John Holland is seeded second. The quality of the other seeds speaks for itself – David Gatheral, Saul Chivers, Hamish Innes, Daniel Piggott, Sanjay Saptarshi and Neil Freeman. Neil Freeman’s group really is a tough one. He will face Richard Baxter and Sam Phillips.

          John Holland goes again in the division three singles and he is seeded to play Hamish Innes in the Final. Again, the other seeded players are all equally capable – Sam Phillips, Dawn Baldry, Richard Baxter, Mervyn Perriman and Gary Copsey.

          Mervyn Perriman is the top seed in the division four singles. The hugely promising Harry Chivers is seeded second with Denis Crapnell and David Moles making up the seeds.

          David Smith is the man to beat in the division five singles with Jamie Elliot due to face him in the Final. The other seeds are Jacqueline Smith and Robert Hillis.

          The Under 40s Singles is another new event this year and Junior players are not eligible. Lee McHugh is the top seed with Sam Lowman seeded second. Daniel Anderson and Robert Shrimpton are seeded third and fourth. Lowman has drawn a short straw. He faces Wiktor Delimat and Sam Phillips in his group.  Lee McHugh’s group is another strong one. He goes head-to-head with Shirish Basant Rai and Richard Storey.

          The Junior Singles has become the Under 19 Singles this year following a Table Tennis England directive to take into account the fact that very little play took place last year. Daniel Young, the holder will be very hard to beat but the likes of Harry Buckle, Charlie Craig, Josh Bickles and Saul Chivers will all be out to make their mark. The Final will take place on Finals Night and it replaces the Final of the now defunct Under 21 Singles.

          Another player who has made great progress -Sudheep Kamma is the favourite to win the Under 15s Singles and the other seeds are Alesha Ellis-Austin and Lotte Mills.

          The Junior Doubles is being played as a “Round Robbin” event. Harry Buckle / Charlie Craig are top seeds but all of the four other pairings are worthy of mention : Nyree Marsh / Daniel Young, Vineeth Kamma / Sudheep Kamma, Saul Chivers / Harry Chivers and Nikita Tkachuk / Josh Bickles.    

          In the League first division – leaders Chelmsford A produced yet another impressive performance to beat Danbury A 8-2. Gary Young won his three singles to ensure Danbury remained in charge in a match where the last three singles encounters produced some stirring battles. Babul McLeod defeated Daniel Young 11-7, 11-9, 8-11, 9-11, 14-12 and Dave Richardson got the better of Kim Shead 9-11, 12-10, 8-11, 11-9, 11-9. There was no let-up in the last game and Gary Young was hard pressed to get the better of Bruce Kettle 8-11, 11-9, 11-7, 9-11, 11-8. Danbury B are third and Sam Lowman won his three singles in his side’s 6-4 win over Chelmsford C. Lowman beat Simon Jarvis, the best of the Chelmsford players 16-18, 11-4, 8-11, 11-7, 11-8.  Galleywood A made a great start against OCA A. Gary Brignall defeated Terry Dowsett 8-11, 11-9, 7-11, 11-7, 11-9 and James Hicks beat Peter Hayden 15-13, 5-11, 13-11, 4-11, 11-8. Get in there.  However, OCA A reasserted themselves and with Matt Mulley (six wins out of six) winning his three singles OCA A won 8-2.   If OCA A field the likes of Mark Mulley, Matt Mulley, Peter Hayden and Terry Dowsett regularly expect them to surge up the table.

          Danbury G lead the way in division two after drawing 5-5 with OCA B. Gareth Joice was the star of the show here and he produced a superb performance to beat all three Danbury players. He beat Eamon Hall in his opening game (13-11, 3-11, 11-7, 11-5) and then most impressively Sanjay Saptarshi (15-13, 6-11, 11-8, 11-9) and finally David Gatheral (4-11, 11-8, 11-9, 11-8) for an excellent hat-trick of wins. Writtle C did well to beat Danbury D 7-3. Gary Ward (23 wins out of 24) is flying this Season and he produced yet another top draw performance. Wins over Gus Heath (11-5, 11-9, 11-8), Chris Buer (11-6, 11-7, 11-9) and Steve Buer (11-9, 11-4, 11-6) tell their own story. Writtle B also did well to beat the higher placed OCA B 7-3. Trevor Collin took centre stage this time. He downed the challenges of Trevor Carter (11-9, 11-8, 5-11, 8-11, 11-6), Richard Baxter (13-11, 10-12, 11-6, 11-8) and Kevin Worthington (11-8, 11-7, 11-8). Well played again. Writtle B were also involved in a 5-5 draw with Hatfield Peverel A. No one player stayed undefeated and Writtle’s Trevor Collin and Rod Maclennan and Hatfield Peverel’s Martin Archie and Gareth Davies all won twice. Rod Maclennan’s fine win over Martin Archie (11-9, 11-7, 11-5) stood out on this occasion. In another match where no single player stayed undefeated Danbury E beat OCA C 6-4. OCA’s Mick Richardson and David Porter and Danbury’s Dick Wyman and Tony Forster all bagged two wins. Tony Forster had given Danbury a winning start by getting the better of Mick Richardson 10-12, 11-9, 11-7, 4-11, 11-8.       

          Galleywood B are back on track to win division three. They powered their way past Chelmsford E 9-1. Gary Copsey and John Holland were both undefeated. Maldon A are second, and they beat Hatfield Peverel B 7-3. Hamish Innes won his three singles at a canter. Danbury H did well to beat the higher placed Chelmsford F 6-4 . Dave Powell led the way with three wins whilst Dave Hancox beat Luke Richardson 12-14, 3-11, 11-6, 12-10, 11-9 in the closest game of the night.    

          Danbury L have moved into pole position in division four but they won’t gain too much satisfaction from their 9-1 win over Chelmsford G who only had one player. Vasile Barbulet certainly made his  mark with his fine 11-9, 11-1, 11-6 win over Mervyn Perriman.  Teamwork won the day as OCA E beat Highwood A 6-4. Farooq Ahmed, David Newman and Russ Hall came out on top although Melanie Bonnett remained undefeated. She beat David Newman 3-11, 16-14, 8-11, 11-6, 12-10 and in an even closer finish she saw off Farooq Ahmed 5-11, 13-11, 11-8, 5-11, 18-16. That’s getting your money’s worth.  Neil Thompson was undefeated as Writtle E beat Galleywood C 7-3. Thompson completed his trio of wins with a 12-10, 11-7, 9-11, 5-11, 11-7 victory over Colin Blore.

          OCA F climbed into second place in division five with their superb 9-1 win over Hatfield Peverel E. David Bishop, Bob Francis and Stuart Wintle won all nine singles. Curiously the doubles went astray and Gary Simmonds and Deb Ginn came out on top 10-12, 11-8, 8-11, 11-9, 11-6 against David Bishop and Bob Francis.  Danbury M also won 9-1.  Paul Thirkettle, Ken Wilding and David Smith beat Chelmsford J.  Paul Thirkettle fought back strongly from 2-1 down to get the better of Paul Bullock 6-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-3, 11-2.  Danbury N complete this week’s results with their 7-3 win over Hatfield Peverel A. Graham Naggs led the way with three wins whilst Steve Martin came out on top in the night’s closest game with a 11-7, 8-11, 11-6, 6-11, 14-12 win against Kath Little.

          Steve Kerns / Press Officer / Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

            County Juniors, County Seniors, County Veterans, County Vets 60s+, General, Local League News, News

            Simon sets the pace in Summer League

            Gallery

            Brand Identity have been the outstanding team in the first division of the Central Essex Summer League and their record of 73 points out of 100 is testimony to that. This week they beat Chelmsford B 13-7 after Simon Jacob won both of his games. With 9 wins out of 10 Simon has proved to be the player to beat. Josh Bickles impressed for the losers with a 11-9, 11-2, 9-11, 11-7, 11-9 win over David Jacob whilst David atoned for this loss with a fine 11-8, 11-8, 11-9, 11-3, 11-8 victory against Shirish Basant Rai. Cold Norton B (Dan Anderson and Sam Lowman) impressed this week with a 16-4 win over Chelmsford A. All matches were won 4-1, the first time this has happened. The smooth flowing Sam Lowman excelled by stopping Victor Chan 11-4, 11-6, 11-9, 7-11, 11-7. Hockley A have climbed into second place. Matt Stringer dominated proceedings as they beat Danbury A 14-6. Stringer scored 4-1 wins over both Babul McLeod and Bruce Kettle. Ian Wall made his mark with a fine 11-13, 11-8, 13-11,  11-5, 11-3 win over Bruce Kettle. Hockley A also beat Rayne 13-7, although Rayne were a player short. Ian Whiteside made his mark with a 4-1 victory over Dan Patynski and a 3-2 success against Tim Pang.

            There is everything still to play for in division two. Chelmsford C lead the way with 61 points from five matches whilst Cold Norton A have 60 points from five matches and Danbury C have 52 points from four matches. Danbury C fared best this week. They beat Writtle A 16-4. Gus Heath and Sanjay Saptarsh were both undefeated. Sanjay  gave Danbury a winning start with a fluctuating 11-9, 10-12, 11-1, 11-5, 9-11 victory against Ryan Pitt.   Cold Norton also did well, beating Danbury B 12-8. Tim Cramphorn who had beaten Steve Buer 4-1 came through a real hum-dinger of a fourth game against Chris Buer (9-11, 11-7, 11-4, 9-11, 12-10).  Danbury B in turn ran out 14-6 winners against OCs A. Charles Yeung was on target for the losers with an 8-11, 9-11, 11-4, 11-6, 11-5 win over Steve Buer. Further down the table Ramsden A beat Writtle A 13-7. Arron Chandler and Trevor Collin won all four games, three of them by 3-2 margins.

            In division three the leaders Danbury F were 15-5 winners against Chelmsford D. Sanjay Saptarsh  was undefeated whilst Sudheep Kamma was on target for the losers with a 4-1 win over Eamon Hall. Danbury E also won, with Ken Sheard scoring 4-1 wins over David Meah and Mervyn Perriman as they saw off the higher placed Danbury D 13-7.

            Drawn matches have been pretty rare, although that was the result of the division four clash between the leaders OCs D and Ramsden A. Mick Richardson retained his 100 % record for the Old Chelmsfordians side whilst Dave Carter earned his side a share of the spoils by beating Luke Richardson 5-0 in the last game. The scores here 11-9, 18-16, 11-8,  12-10, 13-11 denote just how well contested that game was. Cold Norton C scored their second win beating Buttsbury A 13-7. Dave Hancox scored 4-1 wins over both Kevin Willis and Tomasz Krolikowski. Cold Norton C were also on the wrong end of a 17-3 setback against Chelmsford F. Saul Chivers and Harry Chivers called the shots here.

            In division five Danbury H beat Maldon A 12-8, good going as Marty Englander was undefeated for Maldon A . He beat Ken Wilding 9-11, 11-9, 11-7, 12-10, 10-12 and David Smith 7-11, 3-11, 12-10, 11-8, 11-7. Marty Englander was also in action for Maldon B against OCs E, but it was the OCs team who powered home 18-2. Russell Hall and Farooq Ahmed dominated.

            In division seven there was a first win for Writtle Racoons. They beat Chelmsford Panthers 12-8, with Luv Goel dominating proceedings. Goel defeated Lotte Mills 14-12, 9-11, 11-9, 16-14, 11-9 in a hotly contested opening encounter.

            Thanks to Steve Kerns, Press Officer, Central Essex Summer League

             

            General, News

            Bill Wadling

            Gallery

            1991 Essex Closed with Peter and Linda Radford (winners), Mike Watts and Jean Wadling (runners up) trophies presented by Bill Wadling for the Veterans Mixed Doubles.

            1991 Essex Closed with Peter and Lesley Radford (winners), Mike Watts and Jean Wadling (runners up) trophies presented by Bill Wadling for the Veterans Mixed Doubles.

            Bill Wadling a stalwart of Table Tennis in Essex has died at the age of 85. He began his involvement began in Ilford during the 1950’s where he was responsible for organising tournaments for the Ilford Table Tennis League. He moved to Essex County Admin and became Senior Match Secretary at a time when Essex were in the ascendancy Table Tennis wise with the likes of Chester Barnes, Bobby Stevens, Stuart Gibbs, Brian Brumwell, Lesley Bell all available to play for the county. The 1964-65 County Championship season with Bill at the helm saw Essex win the Premier Division for the first time. Since the start of the championships in 1947 only two counties had won the title, Middlesex and Surrey. Thanks to the stewardship of Bill, Essex would be the dominant force for the next eight years winning 6 titles during that time.  County records are a little sketchy around this time but we believe Bill continued as Senior Match Secretary for a further two years until 1967.

            In 1968 for his excellent endeavours with the County Seniors Bill received the prestigious Corti Woodcock Memorial Award.

            Bill with his wife Jean, a very good Table Tennis player in her own right, moved to mid Essex and he took on roles with the Chelmsford Table Tennis League. He was also playing, at first for Hoffman’s and then joining the Essex County Council Table Tennis Club in the 1975 – 76 season, joining with Dave Platt, John Reed, Celia Fowler and wife, Jean. He continued playing to about 1988. Bill’s first match was against Britvic B and he beat both K. Purton and C. Watson and played the Doubles with Celia Fowler.

            Chelmsford League roles at this time were varied.

            Senior Match Secretary. 1986 – 87 to 1992 – 93.

            Committee Member. 1993 – 94.

            Vice Chairman. 1994 – 95 to 1998 – 99.

            Competitions Secretary. 1995 – 96 to 1996 – 97. (Bill took over from Jean Wadling).

            The Chelmsford League made Bill Wadling a Life Member in 1998.

            Not content with Chelmsford roles Bill returned to Essex County duties joining Essex Standing Sub-Committees – Senior Affairs. 1988 – 89 to 1993 – 94 and Coaching. 1988 – 89 to 1993 – 94. He also returned as Senior Match Secretary. 1988 -89 to 1993 -94. Bill picked up the mantle with the Essex first team in Division 1A, in 1989 they gained promotion to the Premier division, but they were relegated the following year. 1991 they managed second in division 1B but in 1992 they won division 1B and were back in the Premier. With Bill still managing things they consolidated their place in the 1992-93 season ready for an assault on the Premier title last won in the 1979-80 season. He had some good players to call upon for this year, including Skylet Andrew, Steve Dorking, Cris Sladden, Grant Solder, Linda Radford and Shelley Ruocco. Essex were triumphant, unbeaten in their seven matches and 4 clear points ahead of their nearest rivals. Bill always said his proudest moment was Essex winning the County Championships. He was probably unique in that he was involved with two Essex county teams winning the title a generation apart. Bill stood down from the role in 1994 and was elected a Vice President for the 1994-95 season. In 1995 Bill was made an Honorary Life Member of the County Association.

            To finish we thought it fitting to reproduce the County Championship report first published in the April 1965 edition of Table Tennis proclaiming the success of Essex.  Just one name missing from the Essex line-up, Bill Wadling, an important member of the team behind the scenes. Bill had an unquenchable enthusiasm for Table Tennis, with true dedication and a great sense of humour. Those in the Table Tennis community who knew him will be saddened by his passing.

            ESSEX ARE NEW CHAMPIONS

            ESSEX, with a narrow 5-4 win over Surrey, took the Premier Division Championship for the first time and broke a Middlesex run of five successive titles. Surrey put up a great fight with George Murray fully extending Chester Barnes, and a men’s doubles far too close for comfort for Barnes and Bobby Stevens. Murray had a good match as he also beat Stuart Gibbs in a tight finish. Mary Shannon beat Lesley Bell over three games. The Gloucestershire – Middlesex clash for second place produced some excellent table tennis but only in the first set of the evening was a deciding game needed. Bryan Merrett had a set point against Brian Wright in the second and then put a hit off at 19­all in the third. Wright was the Middlesex star as he also beat Ian Harrison, in an encounter which produced some magnificent shots, and took the mixed doubles with Irene Ogus, deputising for Diane Rowe. Irene also won her singles, but Middlesex could manage no more.

            Table Tennis April 1965-Issue No. 190  –  See page 20 for the report

             

            The Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday 2nd March 2021 at 15:30.

            Physical Location: Colchester Crematorium.
            Live Webcast:    https://www.obitus.com/

            Username – Ciko7641
            Password – 804535

            Please log onto the website at any time to view a test connection (strongly recommended you do this) but you’ll only be able to view the Live Webcast approx. 5 mins before the service start time. Please be aware this is a public building and the timing of the Live webcast is semi-automated to allow for services running early or late – please use your discretion if you can see activities not applicable to the service you are here to watch.

             Personal message from Bill’s son Andy Wadling

            Whilst we would love to have a funeral and gathering afterwards to celebrate Dads life as it stands today we are limited to 20 persons for a 20 minute service only. Whilst we know many friends and family would normally like to attend and we would have loved to have welcomed one and all to celebrate and share stories from our past, perhaps bringing a smile or two from nice memories shared. We appreciate it is recommended not to travel at present, some people are locked down for their health, cherry picking people who can or cannot attend seems inappropriate to us, worrying about causing upset if people were not invited to attend and vice versa unfair pressure if parties are invited – on this basis we believe that the best compromise (best option not necessarily good I do realise this) is that only the immediate family myself, Kate, Amy, Matt and Gee (Matt’s fiancée) will attend in person and a web cast will be available for everyone else to attend remotely. My deepest and sincerest apologies for this but I think it is the most practical way and hopefully ensure everyone stays safe and well. The irony of this is that technology will assist Dad’s friends and family to wish him farewell on his final journey and for a complete techno phobe like Dad it sums up these current times.

            Please note a MuchLoved web site has been created for Dad https://williamwadling.muchloved.com    . The site will allow parties to share stories, and much more so please do share as in the current climate a traditional social gathering to share stories and memories will not be possible so let’s maximise the technology. In addition there is a donation feature in lieu of floral tributes to give to Colchester Food Bank as that seems a more appropriate gesture in current times.

            If anyone needs help or to discuss anything about arrangements or just wishes to catch up that would be great and I can be reached on 07876 196272.

            Most importantly we hope you are staying safe and well.

            Please share to anyone who knew Dad if you feel they may wish to attend the web cast as that would be most appreciated and lovely.

            Regards,

            Andy, Kate, Amy, Matt and Gee.

             

            County Juniors, General, News, Tournaments

            Essex Junior Closed Results

            The Essex Junior Closed was held at BATTS Harlow on Sunday 5 January 2020. By the Closing Date of 10 December there was a doubt that the event would be held but with twenty late entries accepted the event went ahead with 67 entries. The order of play of the events had to be changed from last year with the increased number of girl entrants. The opening events were the Under 11 Open (Boys and Girls), three less than last year, the Under 18 Restricted Boys (two less than last year) and space to squeeze in the Under 15 Girls event, an event that only attracted one entrant last year. These three events could be played at the same time. Basically Groups of three players with the top two going through to the KO stages. This was the first year for many years to hold every event with enough players entered in each event.

             

            For the Under 11 Open event there were four Groups with five girls (one girl pulled out that morning with a foot injury) and seven boys. Two girls and two boys were selected as seeds. At the Group stage every seed won their Group and only one match went to a fourth game. In the quarter finals No. 3 equal seed Scarlotte Mills (Sou) had won her first two games 13-11, 11-9 but then lost the next three games 2-11, 3-11,4-11 to Luv Goel (Che). The other three seeds won their matches 3-0. In the semi finals Luv lost to the number two seed Evie Knaapen (Sou) 11-6, 3-11, 11-3, 11-6 but in the other semi there was a titanic battle between number three equal seed Shrinand Vijayakrichnan (Sou) and number 1 seed Charles Donald (Che) in a match that literally went to the wire. Charles eventually won 11-3, 6-11, 11-7, 8-11, 15-13. In the final Charles won 11-9, 11-3, 11-8.

             

             

            The Under 18 Boys Restricted event is for players who have never played for the County. There is no seeding so the Groups are luck of the draw as is the KO stage. There were five Groups as against last year’s seven.

            Matches in four of the Groups were all won 3-0 and Group 2 was by far the strongest Group. In the opening match Mario Ioakim (Woodford Wells) just got the better of Noah Sage (Bur) 9, -14, 9 ,8 while in his next match he was on the receiving end, losing 9, 8, -11, -8, 8 to Joshua Bickles (Che). The final Group match between Noah and Joshua was even closer with Joshua winning the final two points to win 5, 8, -12, -9, 10. In the quarter finals two matches went the full distance,  Charlie Kauders-Boothby (Sou) overcoming Sudheep Kamma (Che) 5, -7, -5, 8, 6 while clubmates Joshua and Vineeth Kamma met in the bottom half of the draw, Joshua coming back from 2-1 down to win 9, -10, -8, 7, 6. Charlie and Joshua both lost their semi-final matches to the Colchester duo Bright Bedding and Toby McLewin respectively and Toby went on to win the final -9, 5, -8, 8, 7.

             

            In the Under 15 Girls event the two seeds, Mabel Shute (Woodford Wells) and Alesha Ellis-Austin (Che) both won their Group matches comfortably. When the other two players in each Group met both matches went the full distance, Rachana Jatla (Mossford) beat Emilie Guilloux (Che) and Daniya Elfallah (Ilford) beat Evie Knaapen. In the final Mabel beat Alesha 7, 7, 6.

             

            The next events were the Under 13 Boys and Girls events. Only five boys Groups as against eight Groups last year. For the girls nine entrants this year as against only three last year. Maliha Baig had requested to be allowed to play in the boys events for experience and which would enable other girls the opportunity of winning events. The request was granted. Four of the five seeds won their Group, the fifth seed had withdrawn as he was required to play football. Number 2 seed Joseph Buscombe (Sou) was defeated by Rees Christina (Woodford Wells) -9, -8, 3, 5, 5 in the quarter final and then Rees lost to Maliha 6, 4, -12, 8 in the semi-final. In the other semi top seed James Donald (Che) beat Sudheep 8, 9, 8. The final was a thriller with some terrific high speed rallies keeping the spectators aghast. Maliha eventually won -7, 8, -9, 6, 2.

             

            Meanwhile the four seeds in the Under 13 Girls event were winning their Groups at a more leasurely pace and all matches by 3-0 margins. Mabel, Evie and Alesha all won their quarter final matches but Katie Tanner (Sou) lost to Rachana Jatla 3-1. Sister Sarah also lost to Evie 3-1. In the Semi’s Mabel a comfortable 3-0 win over Rachana, but the other Semi went to five games, Evie defeating Alesha -8, 9, 7, -6, 6. Mabel won the final 9, 5, 3.

             

            The event with the largest number of entrants was the Under 15 Boys with nine Groups. Here again seven of the nine seeds winning their Groups with the other two withdrawing to play football. Two matches went to a fourth game and two to a fifth game, seed Tobie Zeffie struggling to beat Rees Christina to win his Group. At the quarter final stage top seed Ralph Pattison (BATTS) beat Joshua Bickles 8, 6, -11, 9, Ben Porter (Che) beat Toby Zeffie 11. 8, 8, James Donald beat Rees Christina 7, 3, 3, and Maliha Baig beat Liam Harris 7, 7, 4.

             

             

             

            In the semi-finals Ralph beat Ben 5, 8, 5 and in a repeat of the earlier match Maliha again beat James, this time 10, 8, 7. In the final Maliha took the first game 11-7 but lost the next three games 6, 13, 2, that third game being the match decider.

             

            There were nine girls in the Under 18 event this year, a major improvement on last year’s two entries. Emily Kidd (Sou) won her Group but Annabel Sweeney (Che) lost to Mabel Shute -10, -5, 9, 8, -7 to finish runner up in her Group  while Nyree Marsh (Che) was taken the full distance by Melinda Abraham Victor (Che) 8, 7, -7, -7, 4 in the last Group match to win the Group. Having beaten Melinda in the quarter final Annabel beat Emily Kidd 6, 6, 9 in the semi to get to the final and meet Nyree who had beaten Mabel 12, 6, 12 in their semi. In the final Nyree won 4, -8, 3, 5.

             

            In the Under 18 Girls Restricted there were two Groups and Annabel had to withdraw from the event. Melinda defeated Joanna Gaudini (Sou) 7, 9, 12 to meet Nyree in the final. No marathon this time with Nyree winning 2, 11, 10.

             

            The final event of the day was the Under 18 Boys Singles. Same number of Groups as last year. Ray Yan had to withdraw two days before with illness and the remaining seeds all won their Groups.  In the quarter finals number one seed Jaden Aulakh (Fusion) beat Toby Zeffie 9, 10, 11, Jesse Bath (Wanstead) beat Ralph Pattison 9, -5, 10, -8, 9 for a very narrow win, Daniel Zeffie (Sou) beat Toby McLewin (Col) -4, 13, -5, 7, 8 and Daniel Young (Cla) beat Joshua Bickles 6, 1, 6. In the semi finals Jaden beat Jesse -7, 9, 9, 3, and Daniel Zeffie beat Daniel Young 6, -8, 8, -10, 8. Jaden won the final 8, 7, 3 over Daniel Zeffie.

            Under 18 Girls Restricted winner Nyree Marsh (left) and runner-up Melinda Abraham Victor (right) with coach Lee Mchugh

            Under 18 Girls Restricted winner Nyree Marsh (left) and runner-up Melinda Abraham Victor (right) with coach Lee Mchugh

             

            Under 11 Open Event winner and runner up Charles Donald and Evie Knaapen

            Under 11 Open Event winner and runner up Charles Donald and Evie Knaapen

            Arthur C. Clark

            Essex Junior Match Secretary and Tournament Organiser.

             

            County Juniors, News, Tournaments

            Essex girls top the table

            The Final round of County Junior Championship Division 1B matches were played at BATTS Harlow on Saturday 9 November 2019. For the first round of matches they had been played at Burgess Hill, Sussex, and at BATTS on 12 October to reduce travelling. Sussex 1 led the southern sub-division with six points from Dorset 1, Sussex 2 and Surrey 2 whilst the northern sub-division comprised Essex 1, Norfolk, Middlesex 1 and 2.

            However, on the day before these matches were due to be played Middlesex reported that neither of their teams could field a team so they conceded their matches to Norfolk and Essex 1 leaving just this one match to be played which Essex won 10-0. Junior Division 2C were also playing their first round matches at Burgess Hill and BATTS.

            The Essex team for the Final round of matches when all eight teams met at BATTS was Jaden Aulakh (702), Daniel Young (639), Ray Yan (502), Gracie Edwards (730) with Maliha Baig (378) promoted to the first team now that Tiana Dennison was no longer a Junior player, this being the same team as that that beat Norfolk. The current Ranking points of all the players are shown in red where known. After that first round match and the two concessions Essex were equal first with Sussex 1 with Dorset and Norfolk two points behind.

             

            The top two teams met in the opening round of matches. Both the two opening matches went the full distance and both finished with 11-5 scores and fluctuating games. Daniel won 4, -9, 5, -7, 5 against Owen Brown (816) while Ray lost to Keigo Burnham (616) 9, -5, 5, -10, -5. Next was the first of the girls matches and these four girls were the top girls on the day.  Gracie quickly accounted for Joelle Bennett (357) 7, 10, 3 while Maliha needed four games to beat Jodie Morris (675) 7, 5, -2, 8 who she had lost to a month or so ago, so a very good win for her. Jaden won both his matches comfortably, both 3-0, against Fraser Kent (837) and Keigo while Ray did just enough to beat Owen 9, 9, 8. Maliha beat Joelle 8, 7, 8 but Gracie had to work really hard to overcome Jodie 9, -13, 7, 10. An unexpected score line win to put Essex two points ahead which could become welcome later on.

             

            Surrey 2 were the new opponents who had lost all their matches in the first round of matches at Burgess Hill. It was only when writing this report that I noticed that Surrey had changed four of their team for higher ranked players. Jaden lost to Howard Onweng (801) 9, 9, 7 while on the other table Ray had lost the first game 11-4 to Ojasvii Borah (points not known) but came back strongly to win the next three games 8, 9, 9. Maliha beat Gabriela Lee 3-0 (points not known) but Gracie’s match with Yuvathi Kumar (points not known), the only Surrey player to play in the previous round of matches, went to a fifth game. In that last game Gracie trailed all the way until two consecutive points brought the score to 9-9. After Yuvathi called a time out Gracie had to save a match point but eventually won 10, -7, -9, 9, 11. Meanwhile on the other table Daniel lost to Nahom Goitom (874), the highest ranked boy om the day, 3-1 and then Ray beat Howard 3-1. Maliha’s 3, 7, 6 win over Yuvathi got the team at least a draw but alas the win could not be achieved, Gracie losing to Gabriela 7, 15, -12, 9, Jaden losing the fifth game to Nahom 11-7 and Daniel losing to Ojasvii 11, 13, 6.  With Sussex 1 beating Middlesex 1 6-4 Essex now only had a one point lead.

             

            Dorset were a boy and girl player missing so Essex starting the match 4-0 up. Jaden and Maliha soon made that 6-0 with 3-0 wins over Nathan Carlton (345) and Sophie Storey (272) respectively. Daniel then lost to Jamie Blair (856), the second highest ranked boy on the day, 3-1 and Ray beat Nathan 3-1. Jaden then had to play Jamie. He won the first two games 12-10 but Jamie hit back winning the next two games 4 and 7. A good start in the final game and Jaden went on to win it 11-5, a good win. With Gracie a 3-0 win against Sophie a 9-1 win the result.

             

            With Sussex 1 winning their match Essex needed a draw to win the Division on Sets difference. Their opponents were Sussex 2 who had won their matches 10-0, 9-1 and 8-2 and if they beat Essex Sussex 1 could win the Division by winning against a Norfolk team who had lost their three previously matches heavily.

             

            Not a good start for Essex with both Ray and Daniel each losing 3-1 to Will Mitchell Jamar McGlashan (730) respectively. Along came the cavalry to the rescue with Maliha and Gracie two easy wins against Sasha

             

             

             

            O’Halloran (241) and Sacha Ward. Jaden then lost to Martin Kapusta 3-0 but the match of the match was that between Jamar and Ray. Having lost the first two games 9, 6 Ray came back to win the next two games 10 and 9. Behind all the way in the decider Ray arrived 5-10 down. Clawing back those five match points and then another he finally won that game 13-11, a welcome win towards the draw that was needed. Maliha beat Sasha Ward 3, 4, 2 and Gracie won 3-1 against Sacha O’Halloran for the five points Essex wanted. Daniel lost to Martin after leading 2-1 but Jaden finished the day with an 8, 6, 6 win over Will. Essex were champions of the Division and could look forward to promotion to the Premier Division next season. Alas Gracie and Ray will be unable to play for the team as they will no longer Junior players next season. We wish them well in their Senior careers.

             

            Including the one match on 12 October  Jaden Aulakh 7 wins out of 10 matches; Daniel Young 4 out of 9; Ray Yan 7 out of 9; Gracie Edwards 8 out of 9; Maliha Baig 9outof 9.

             

            FINAL TABLE

            P          W         D         L          F          A          Pts

            Essex 1                       7          6          1          0          59        11        13

            Sussex 1                     7          6          0          1          49        21        12

            Sussex 2                     7          4          0          3          44        26          8

            Dorset 1                      7          3          2          2          30        36          8

            Surrey 2                      7          3          1          5          44        26          7

            Norfolk                                    7          2          0          5          26        44          4

            Middlesex 1                 7          0          1          6          10        48         1

            Middlesex 2                 7          0          1          6            6        52         1

             

             

            Arthur C. Clark

            Essex Junior Match Secretary