Tag Archives: Essex Super Vets

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

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

Matthew Mulley outstanding for OCA A

Chelmsford A, the outstanding team in the first division of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League, were held to a 5-5 draw by OCA A. OCA’s Matthew Mulley was the star of this match, no question, and he powered his way to three singles wins beating James Liddiard (11-7 11-9, 11-9), Kim Shead (11-6, 11-7, 11-7) and Gary Young (12-14, 11-6, 11-3, 11-8). He has a 100 % singles record (12/12 wins). Kim Shead played his part by beating Mark Mulley (9-11, 6-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-9) having previously lost to Rob Burton (9-11, 11-9, 8-11, 5-11). The low scoring nature of this division can be illustrated by the fact that Danbury C are now in second place with 62 points out of 120. They did well to beat Danbury B 6-4. Trevor Lloyd was again their star performer and he stormed to a hat-trick of wins. He defeated Dan Anderson (11-5, 11-6, 11-8), Cameron Gray (11-6, 11-3, 11-9) and Chris Buer (11-6, 11-4, 11-3). Very impressive.  Writtle A have slipped back.  Lee McHugh was unbeaten against Chelmsford B but Saul Chivers, Harry Buckle and Charlie Craig all won twice as Chelmsford won 7-3. McHugh had to pull out all the stops against Charlie Craig before he won 13-11, 6-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-9.    

Division two produced three tightly fought matches this week. John Webber and Gary Ward were both undefeated as Writtle C beat OCA B 6-4. Writtle C now have 72 points, the same as Hatfield Peverel A in second place. Webber fought back from 2-0 down to beat Charles Yeung 8-11, 8-11, 11-9, 13-11, 11-6 in the opening game of the evening. Danbury E also won 6-4, against Danbury F. Neil Want led the way with three wins. He beat Gordon Gatheral (11-4, 11-7, 11-5), Ken Sheard (11-5. 11-8, 11-5) and Alan Scammell (11-4, 11-9, 11-5). Pretty dominant. The match between OCA C and Writtle B finished tied at 5-5. No one player stayed unbeaten and Mick Richardson and Dave Porter (OCA) and Matthew Brown (Writtle) all bagged two wins. Matthew Brown gave Writtle a winning start by beating Mick Richardson (11-13, 11-7, 10-12, 14-12, 11-8) and he carried on the good work by defeating Dave Porter (11-8, 11-6, 9-11, 10-12, 11-8) but he became a victim of Mick Hayes in his third singles (9-11, 7-11, 6-11).  An excellent win for Mick Hayes. The exceptional result in this division was the very strong performance that Hatfield Peverel A turned in to beat Chelmsford D 8-2. Martin Archie led the way with three wins and he received excellent support from Neil Freeman and Gareth Davies who both won twice. Martin Archie defeated Victor Chan, the best of the Chelmsford players – 12-10, 6-11, 11-1, 14-12. A rather unusual looking scoreline.

Galleywood B (101 points out of a possible 130) are almost as dominant in division three as Chelmsford A are in division one. This week they beat Danbury J 8-2. John Holland and Gary Copsey were both undefeated whilst Dave Meah beat Mark Glenister (11-8, 11-4, 9-11, 11-8) for the losers. Chelmsford E also won 8-2 against Hatfield Peverel B. Rev Matthews and Joachin Mapes both won their three singles. Michael Lucey missed out by the narrowest possible margin twice. He lost 11-7, 8-11, 11-8, 9-11, 10-12 to Joachin Mapes and equally closely (8-11, 11-13, 11-9, 11-7, 9-11) to Rev Matthews. Andy Swales dominated affairs as Chelmsford F beat OCA D 7-3. Swales completed his hat-trick by beating Amanda Hogger (11-5, 11-13, 12-10, 8-11, 11-5).

In division four Danbury L made it 10 wins out of 12 by defeating Galleywood C 7-3. Denis Crapnell (24 wins out of 24) retained his 100 % record and he beat Colin Blore (two wins for the Galleywood side) 11-7, 9-11, 11-8, 11-6. Blore also had a fought win against Denis Balic and he battled back from 2-0 down to triumph 7-11, 9-11, 12-10, 11-8, 11-9. OCA E ran out 9-1 winners against Maldon B in a match where Farooq Ahmed and David Bishop gave nothing away. Writtle E beat Chelmsford G 6-4. Chelmsford were handicapped by being a player short but Neil Thompson beat both Dusan Doszkoty (18-20, 7-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-7) and Vasile Barbulet (11-8, 11-5, 11-9) to ensure Writtle emerged as winners.

In division five Buttsbury surged to a superb 9-1 win over the higher placed Hatfield Peverel C team. Jamie Elliott (three wins), Gary Carr (three wins) and Ben Brown (two wins) called the shots. Richard Drozd prevented Hatfield Peverel C from being whitewashed with his 9-11, 11-9, 2-11, 11-7, 16-14 success against Ben Brown.  Hatfield Peverel C did better against Hatfield Peverel E and won 6-4. Mick Carter led the way with a hat-trick and he sealed the victory for his side by beating Gary Simmons 12-10, 11-5, 11-7 in the last game of the evening. Roger Slade was unbeaten for Hatfield Peverel D who beat Danbury M 7-3 whilst Maldon C combined well to get the better of Chelmsford J 6-4. Paul Bullock was unbeaten for Chelmsford J and this included a widely fluctuating 11-6, 6-11, 11-3, 5-11, 11-7 win over Rob Sach.

Steve Kerns Press Officer Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

Danbury A hit top form against Chelmsford C

The battle for second place in division one of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League couldn’t be closer. A mere nine points separates second placed Danbury C and seventh placed Danbury B who have two games in hand on some of their rivals. The big shock this week was the 10-0 roasting that Danbury A dished out to Chelmsford C. Eric Green, Dave Richardson and Babul McLeod were all on top form and Chelmsford C just couldn’t find a foothold however hard they tried.  Eric Green gave Danbury A the perfect start by beating the hard-hitting Simon Jarvis 12-10, 8-11, 11-8, 11-13, 11-3. Danbury C fared no better against the all-conquering Chelmsford A. Daniel Young, Gary Young and Kim Shead powered home 10-0 and with 87 points they lead the way by a huge 31 points. Kim Shead impressed this time. He beat Wiktor Delimat (7-11, 11-9, 11-9, 3-11, 11-7), Simon Jarvis (12-10, 7-11, 11-7, 12-10, 11-4) and new signing Adam Cuthbert (10-12, 11-5, 9-11, 11-3, 11-7). Three excellent wins. Danbury C also dented Writtle A’s hopes of finishing second by beating them 8-2. Trevor Lloyd and Sanjay Saptashi were both undefeated. Ryan Pitt was on target for the losers and he defeated David Gatheral 7-11, 11-9, 11-7, 9-11, 11-9. OCA A with the “brothers Mulley” in tandem are a force to be reckoned with. Mathew and Mark captured all six singles plus the doubles as they beat Chelmsford B 7-3. The doubles went to “the wire” with Matthew and Mark sneaking home 7-11, 11-9, 11-5, 9-11, 11-9 against Josh Bickles and Harry Buckle.  

OCA C impressed in division two and the upturn in form of League Chairman Dave Porter has been particularly impressive. OCA C’s 6-4 win over second placed Writtle C owed a lot to Porter’s excellent hat-trick of wins. He beat John Parodi (11-7, 12-10, 8-11, 7-11, 11-9), John Webber (11-9, 11-9, 11-6) and John Gagg (11-9, 11-2, 11-6). Leaders Danbury G won again, 7-3 against Danbury E. Their top player – Sanjay Saptarshi (88 %) again led by example and he powered home to three wins. He beat Tim Cramphorn (11-6, 11-6, 11-7), Neil Want (11-2, 11-2, 11-6) and Dick Wyman (11-3, 11-3, 11-4). “First division” written all over that performance. Team-work saw Hatfield Peverel A beat Danbury F 7-3. Gareth Davies, Neil Freeman and Martin Archie all won twice in a match where the last six games were all decided in the fifth end. Sam Phillips won twice for the losers and this included a fine 4-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-8, 11-8 win over Martin Archie. The match between Danbury E and Writtle B finished tied at 5-5. Paul Sturton was unbeaten for Writtle A.  Dick Wyman did well to beat Trevor Collin 9-11, 11-1, 11-8, 6-11, 11-5.

Danbury K had the misfortune to have to play against the two outstanding sides in division three in successive weeks. They lost 9-1 to second placed Maldon A and 8-2 to the leaders Galleywood B. Peter Hance was on target against Maldon A with a fine 11-6, 3-11, 6-11, 11-4, 11-8 win over Lloyd Bennett-Smith but Hamish Innes and Dawn Baldry were both undefeated. Mark Glenister and John Holland were both undefeated for Galleywood with Peter Hance beating Bryn Thomas narrowly 9-11, 11-8, 12-10, 12-10 for their sole singles success. Maldon A also beat Danbury J 7-3. Hamish Innes, Dawn Baldry and Brian Riedling all bagged two wins whilst Dave Marsh won twice for Danbury J. Dave Meah showed up well with a fine 13-11, 11-5, 11-7 win over Hamish Innes. In another match where no single player stayed undefeated Writtle D beat OCA D 6-4. Dave Carter secured the Writtle victory with a superb 12-10, 11-6, 7-11, 5-11, 11-6 win over Richard Baxter.  Baxter had also been involved a in hard fought five-setter with Bob Garson. This time he won 11-8, 13-15, 11-7, 2-11, 12-10.  The match between Chelmsford E and Chelmsford F also finished 6-4, with the Chelmsford E team edging it. Rev Matthews won his three singles and he sealed the victory for his side by beating Andy Swales 13-11, 7-11, 11-7, 11-8 in the last game of the night. The match went to form when Danbury H played Hatfield Peverel B. Dave Hancox won his three singles as Danbury H won 7-3. Richard Allen gave Danbury H a winning start by beating Paul Mulley – the best of the Hatfield Peverel players 11-6, 7-11, 11-7, 8-11, 12-10.

Danbury L scored their ninth win of the season to move 19 points clear in division four. Denis Balic and Denis Crapnell were both undefeated in their 8-2 win over Maldon B. Denis Crapnell (21 wins out of 21) retained his 100 % singles record. Writtle E are third and they beat Chelmsford H 9-1. Malcolm Storey and Dave Moles both won their three singles whilst Harrison Hill was on target for Chelmsford H. He beat Neil Thompson 11-9, 13-11, 8-11, 13-11. Highwood A did well to beat Galleywood C 6-4; their second win of the season. Keith Fitz-John excelled. He beat Will Goodchild (11-9, 11-4, 8-11, 13-11), Nathan Blore (8-11, 11-9, 6-11, 11-8, 15-13) and Ron Salton (5-11, 11-9, 11-9, 9-11, 11-5). An excellent evening’s work. OCA E led by the reliable Farooq Ahmed beat Chelmsford G 7-3. David Newman provided the support with two wins. Chelmsford G in turn beat Chelmsford H 8-2. Dusan Doszkoty led the way with a hat-trick and he sealed this by beating Cleon Fernandes 12-10, 12-10, 5-11, 5-11, 12-10 in nail-biting last game of the evening. Galleywood C scored their third win of the campaign by beating Highwood B 6-4. Will Godchild led the way with three wins.

OCA F top the table in division five with 64 points, just one point ahead of Hatfield Peverel E. OCA F beat Chelmsford J 7-3; Stuart Wintle’s hat-trick giving them the edge. Chelmsford’s John Wickins beat Bob Francis 11-8, 11-9, 4-11, 7-11, 11-9 in the closest game of the night. Hatfield Peverel E also won 7-3, beating Hatfield Peverel D. Gary Simmons won his three singles whilst Deb Ginn and Bob Hillis both won twice. Simmons was also undefeated as Hatfield Peverel E beat Maldon C 8-2.  Five games were decided in the fifth end and Hatfield Peverel E won four of them. Bob Hillis also won his three singles on this occasion beating Kym Eames (11-5, 11-3, 11-3), Ross Wheeler (11-5, 12-10, 7-11, 8-11, 11-7) and Brian Dixon (11-9, 11-3, 11-6). Danbury M came out on top 6-4 against Maldon C. Ron Tam led the way with three wins. His third win could have gone either way before he got the better of Ella Sach 11-7, 7-11, 11-6, 8-11, 11-9.        

Steve Kerns Press Officer / Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

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

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

News announced of the death of Peter Grimstead

It has been announced of the death of Peter Grimstead a stalwart of Essex table tennis. He can be seen below in his playing days on the far right with Colin Hughes, left, and Les Eadie in the middle.

Along with Bernard Chatterley he started Grove T.T.C. in Chadwell Heath which played a central part in the Dagenham League for many years as a place to play finals, Rep matches as well as bread and butter league games most nights of the week.

Grove attracted the likes of Chester Barnes, Stuart Gibbs, Les Eadie, Kevin Caldon, Elaine Foulds and, sadly, the late departed Joe Andrews and many more of that standard.

He acted as Chairman and Secretary for the Dagenham League and with Peter Cranmer they worked on Rep. matches, Inter -League and social events.

In 1980 and 1981 he was involved with two Wilmott Cup finals along with the help of his good friend Wally Read when Dagenham beat Leicester in two consecutive finals to win the cup with firstly, Ian Horsham, Des Charlery and Dave Newman, and then with Ian, Dave and Kevin Caldon.

Peter Cranmer recalls how in 1990 Dagenham reached the Final again and asked him ‘Who’s playing in the final?’ I said ‘Well, I would like it to be Des Charlery , Grant Solder and Steve Dorking but Steve is playing in a tournament in Bulgaria the week before and won’t  get back till Saturday morning around 9.00am at Heathrow’. ‘I’ll pick him up’ says Peter ‘and bring him up to St.Neots’ and that’s what he did. They beat Chesterfield, Bradley Billington and all, to make it a third victory in 10 years.

Peter also tells the story of how, after one Dagenham Championship, he can remember unloading 14 tables from one of his vans into a lockup of his at 1am in the morning when the police arrived and asked what was going on. Quick as a flash Pete said ‘unloading tables – give us a hand!’

Back in the late 50’s, early 60’s Peter ran his own bike shop – Grimsteads – in Canning Town later selling scooters even to the likes of Stuart Gibbs and Chester Barnes.

Outside table tennis he was a West Ham United fanatic. His office had pictures all over the wall of W.H.U. players amongst table tennis players and his other sports love speedway. In later years his walking stick was painted in West Ham colours. He will be missed by friends and family, a proper character.

The funeral is on Friday 4th February at Forest Park Crematorium, Hainault, IG6 3HP at 11.00am.

Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League

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

Mulley brothers win all six singles for OCA A

OCA A took a giant stride away from the relegation zone in division one of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League by beating Chelmsford C 8-2, their first win of the Season.  New signing Matthew Mulley and his equally hard-hitting brother Mark won their six singles and Robert Burton contributed a useful 8-11, 11-6, 8-11, 11-8, 11-8 win over Mark Allaway. Matthew Mulley was clearly on good form beating Simon Jarvis, Cristian Bernardo and Mark Allaway all 3-0. They now have a healthy 32 points. Writtle A moved into second place by beating Danbury A 6-4. Duncan Taylor was undefeated and Lee McHugh won twice, although he missed out 5-11, 11-9, 6-11, 16-18 to Bruce Kettle.  Chelmsford A with 55 points out of a possible 70 are heavy favourites to capture the title. James Liddiard (15 wins out of 15) and Gary Young (16 wins out of 18) led the way as they defeated Danbury B 9-1. Sam Lowman was on target for Danbury with a fine 12-10, 5-11, 11-6, 11-9 win over Daniel Young.       

Chelmsford D are the new leaders in division two. Saul Chivers (three wins), Sudheep Kamma (two wins) and Vineeth Kamma (three wins) powered to a 9-1 victory over Writtle B. Peter Layzel beat Sudheep Kamma 2-11, 15-13, 7-11, 11-9, 11-9 whilst Saul Chivers had to dig deep to get the better  of Trevor Collin 8-11, 8-11, 11-3, 11-3, 11-8. Hatfield Peverel A ran out 7-3 winners against a two- man Danbury D. Danbury’s Chris Buer impressed again, beating Martin Archie (11-9, 11-6, 11-8), Gareth Davies (11-5, 7-11, 11-8, 11-8) and Neil Freeman (10-12, 11-4, 14-16, 11-4, 11-5). The match between Danbury E and Writtle C was a hard-fought affair which finished tied at 5-5. The inform Gary Ward (17 wins out of 18) was again undefeated and he fought back from 2-0 down to get the better of Neil Want 5-11, 5-11, 11-7, 11-6, 11-7.  

Second placed Galleywood B were convincing 10-0 winners over Chelmsford F in division three. The very strong team of James Hicks, Gary Copsey and John Holland carried all before them. However, they will lose the services of James Hicks who is now tied to the Galleywood A team in division one.  Writtle D scored their first win of the Season – an impressive 8-2 victory over Hatfield Peverel B. Dave Carter led the way with three victories which included a fine 14-12, 11-8, 11-4 win over Paul Mulley.  It was “honours even” between Danbury J and Danbury K. Dave Marsh and David Meah both won twice for Danbury J whilst Nicky Reece Ford and Peter Hance both bagged two wins for Danbury K. Dave Marsh prevailed against Nicky Reece Ford, just, 5-11, 13-11, 11-4, 8-11, 11-9. OCA D did well to beat Chelmsford E 7-3. Richard Upson excelled. He defeated Adi Kamma (11-4, 8-11,11-7, 6-11, 11-3), Chris Young (11-7, 11-4, 12-10) and Joachin Mapes (11-6, 11-4, 11-9).

Division four produced three sets of clear-cut winners. Leaders Chelmsford H (Joachin Mapes, Nyree Marsh and Harry Chivers) powered their way past Maldon B 10-0. Nyree Marsh fought back from 2-0 down to get the better of Shirley Carroll 6-11, 4-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-9. Writtle E were equally dominant. Ian Hockley, Dave Moles and Neil Thompson defeated OCA E 10-0. There were two close finishes and David Newman was on the wrong end of both of them. Neil Thompson beat Newman 11-8, 9-11, 4-11, 11-9, 12-10 whilst Ian Hockley defeated the unfortunate David Newman 11-3, 11-6, 9-11, 11-13, 13-11. Chelmsford G (Adam Hill, Dusan Doszkoty and Vasile Barbulet) were 9-1 winners against Highwood A. Melanie Bonnett came through in five hard-fought ends against Adam Hill (12-10, 13-15, 8-11, 11-8, 11-8).  

In contrast to division four division five produced four hard-fought matches. Buttsbury are top but they could only draw with Chelmsford J. Frances Hutt remained unbeaten and this included an odd looking 11-8, 1-11, 7-11, 12-10, 11-6 victory over Jacqui Smith. Hatfield Peverel E did well to beat Danbury M 7-3. Bob Hillis was unbeaten whilst Deb Ginn and Gary Simmons both won twice. Ken Wilding traded games with Deb Ginn before he claimed victory 11-8, 8-11, 3-11, 11-7, 11-9. Hatfield Peverel C led by a Mick Carter “full-house” beat Maldon C 6-4. Kym Eames won twice for Maldon but Mick Carter proved a step too far. Carter won this one 11-3, 11-9, 11-7.  Danbury N without a win to date did well to push OCA F before succumbing 6-4. Stuart Wintle was undefeated for the Old Boys whilst Bob Francis won twice. This included a quite bizarre looking 12-10, 16-14, 3-11, 2-11, 12-10 victory against Graham Naggs.    

Buttsbury Bees made it seven wins out of seven in division 1A of the Junior League. Ben Brown and Jamie Elliott over powered Chelmsford Tigers 5-0. Chelmsford Pumas (Oliver Cheung and Todd Martin) ran out 4-1 winners against Chelmsford Panthers, and although they won all four singles they lost the doubles 7-11, 11-9, 9-11, 6-11 to Harrison Hill and Richard Carter. Chelmsford Leopards are second and they beat Chelmsford Pumas 4-1. Cleon Fernandes was unbeaten.

Chelmsford Antelopes demonstrated just how far ahead of the opposition they are indivision 1C. They beat second-placed Chelmsford Cougars 5-0. Richard Carter and Arnav Kumar gave nothing away although Carter was pushed by Joshua Lewis before he won 11-7, 11-13, 11-8, 12-10. Buttsbury Bulldogs moved into third place with their 5-0 win over Chelmsford Eagles. Callum Walker and Adhuna Das carried all before them.   

League Cup Secretary – Matthew Brown has reported from the first round of Handicap Knock Out Cup matches. “The Cup competitions are underway.  With 22 teams entered, representing seven Clubs, there were six first round matches. As always, determining handicaps is a tricky business, not least because juniors in particular improve very quickly, and mixed in with closely fought matches were some very one-sided games”.

“The tightest match of the round was Chelmsford H versus Writtle E, where the juniors of Chelmsford H – Harry and Saul Chivers plus Joachin Mapes, just got the better of Writtle E’s established trio of Dave Moles, Ian Hockley and Malcolm Storey. Five of the nine games went to a deciding set but it was Harry’s rather more straightforward 21-15, 21-14 win over Malcolm that decided the tie in Chelmsford’s favour”.

“Writtle were also on the wrong end of the results card when their B team of Ryan Pitt, Rod Maclennan and Phil Smith lost 6-3 to Danbury G’s trio of Sanjay Saptarshi, Luca Bailey and Eamonn Hall. Unfortunately for Writtle their captain, Rod, had to retire at match point in his first game (all the other five players insisted!). Despite this set back Writtle did their best to give the Danbury team a run for their money, with Phil winning his three matches but Ryan was unable to support him, most notably losing 15-21, 21-17, 16-21 to Luca”.

“Chelmsford E, led by Dave Parker and with Adi Kamma and Chris Young alongside him, ran out 5-3 winners over Danbury H’s Richard Allen, Jean Chasmer and Dave Goody. There were two deciding set wins for Jean over Adi (17-21, 21-14, 18-21) and Chris (21-19, 25-27, 14-21) but two wins from each of Adi and Chris plus Dave Parker’s 21-19, 24-22 win over Dave Goody was enough to see the Chelmsford team through”.

“The youngsters of Buttsbury B were run away 8-1 winners over the division one team of Chelmsford C. A last gasp 18-21, 21-18, 18-21 win for Vasile Barbulet over Jamie Elliott was Chelmsford’s sole return for a night trying to play “catch up”. Oscar Hutt, Jacob Lawrence and Jamie Elliott used their handicaps to their best advantage to easily hold off Vasile, Mark Allaway and Simon Jarvis”.

“Another top division team playing in the handicap cup were the all-star Chelmsford A team of James Liddiard, Daniel Young and Gary Young. They found themselves playing the division five side of Danbury N (Graham Naggs, David Smith and Steve Martin). The results speak for themselves, the handicappers misjudged Danbury’s David Smith, who is more often seen at Melbourne’s Bat & Chat sessions and who won his three matches with ease (only once allowing the opposition to get back to zero). The two matches that Chelmsford did win were, as you would expect, by the tightest of margins, with Gary Young defeating Steve Martin 6-21, 21-19, 21-19 and James Liddiard getting the better of Graham Naggs 11-21, 22-20, 22-20”.

“The last of the first-round matches involved a third division one team – Danbury B’s Dan Anderson, Eric Green and Sam Lowman who got the better of Buttsbury A’s Joseph Hutt, Gary Carr and Frances Hutt. The sole junior for Buttsbury – Joseph Hutt, did his job with two straight sets wins over Eric and Dan but with mum Frances unable to win any of her three games and Gary Carr losing 17-21 in the deciding game to Eric Green, it was the Danbury team who prevailed 5-3”.

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

Chris Buer on excellent from for Danbury D

Danbury D are very much in contention in the low scoring division two of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League and they are joint top of the table with 42 points out of a possible 70. An unbeaten Chris Buer led them to a 7-3 victory against OCA B with three good victories. He beat Gareth Joice (8-11, 12-10, 11-4, 11-5), Trevor Carter (10-12, 11-9. 11-9, 8-11, 11-4) and Kevin Worthington (11-6, 12-10, 11-7).  With a record of 76 % Chris Buer is proving to be a very reliable no. one player for this side. Tony Forster was another player on top form this week and his trio of wins enabled Danbury E to beat Hatfield Peverel A 6-4. Forster powered his way to wins over Neil Freeman (11-7, 11-6, 11-5), Phil Shippen (11-4, 11-2, 11-7) and Gareth Davies (11-9, 11-4, 10-12, 11-4).

In division one a two man OCA A did well to draw with the higher placed Danbury A. Mark Mulley led the way with a trio of wins. He beat Bruce Kettle (7-11, 11-8, 6-11, 11-6, 11-4), Dave Richardson (9-11, 11-6, 11-6, 11-6) and Babul McLeod (11-8, 11-6, 11-7).  Dave Richardson prevailed against Terry Dowsett (11-3, 5-11, 14-12, 12-10).

Danbury J moved into third place in division three by beating Hatfield Peverel B 8-2. Dave Marsh led the way with three victories. The doubles provided the closest game of the night and John Robinson and Dave Marsh pipped Paul Mulley and Michael Lucey 15-13, 6-11, 9-11, 11-2, 13-11.

In division four Highwood B emerged as 6-4 winners against Highwood A. Roger Patient won his three singles for the B side whilst Melanie Bonnett picked up two victories for the A side. Martin Goddard defeated Keith Pallett 11-6, 11-4, 6-11, 6-11, 13-11 in the closest game of the night.

Buttsbury scored their fifth win of the Season in division five by beating Danbury M 7-3. Jamie Elliot and Frances Hutt were both undefeated. It is also interesting to note that this team has used no fewer than 10 players to date this Season. David Bishop was undefeated as OCA F beat the higher placed Hatfield Peverel C 7-3. Bishop was extended by Andy Simmonds but he prevailed 11-8, 15-13, 6-11, 7-11, 11-5.

Chelmsford Pumas ran out 4-1 winners against Buttsbury Bats in division 1A of the Junior League. Oliver Cheung was undefeated and he beat George Standish (9-11, 11-8, 11-9, 11-2) and George Hagland (13-11, 8-11, 11-6, 11-9). Chelmsford Leopards led by Cleon Fernandes beat Chelmsford Tigers 3-2. Cleon Fernandes beat Soumil Jain (11-6, 11-5, 11-8) and Aarav Mehta (8-11, 11-2, 11-5, 11-3).

Chelmsford Antelopes, runaway leaders of division 1C were given their toughest examination yet by Writtle Racoons, despite winning 4-1. Richard Carter won both of his singles but Blake Webster deprived Arnav Kumar of his unbeaten record winning 9-11, 8-11, 11-9, 14-12, 11-8. Carter and Kumar were also stretched in the doubles, all the way, against Blake Webster and Oliver Smith-French before they emerged as 11-7, 11-13, 18-16, 6-11, 12-10 winners.   Writtle Racoons, represented by Blake Webster and Mimi Pummell this time, ran out 5-0 winners against Buttsbury Bulldogs. Mimi Pummell beat Adhuna Das 11-8, 8-11, 11-1, 9-11, 11-6 in a widely fluctuating opening game.

Chelmsford Table Tennis Club Juniors had a very successful day on Saturday in the National Junior League at the Ellenborough Club in Enfield and their A team of Josh Bickles, Saul Chivers and Harry Chivers followed up on their success in the previous round of matches (where they were promoted)  by topping the division one table this time. The teams they beat from Milton Keynes, Ellenborough and Fusion are from some of the largest and most established Clubs in the country. Josh Bickles (9/9 wins), Saul Chivers (8/9 wins) and Harry Chivers (4/9 wins) all played a part in this success. The B team also came tantalisingly close to repeating this feat and they just missed out to Ellenborough B on count-back. Sudheep Kamma (6/9 wins), Vineeth Kamma (6/9 wins) and Cleon Fernandes (5/9 wins) all excelled as well.  

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

A max for Hamish gives Maldon the edge

Division three doesn’t often make the headlines in the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League but the most eye-catching performance went to Maldon A this week. They hammered leaders Galleywood B 9-1 to take over at the top of the table. John Holland beat Dawn Baldry in the opening game but thereafter it was Maldon calling the shots as Lloyd Bennett – Smith and Hamish Innes remained undefeated. Hamish Innes excelled, securing three wins in closely fought games. Hamish beat Mark Glenister (11-9, 11-9, 11-9), John Holland (1-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-9) and Bryn Thomas (11-3, 12-10, 11-6). Lloyd Bennett-Smith sealed a superb Maldon victory by beating John Holland (9-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-8) in the last game of the evening. Maldon A also beat third placed Chelmsford F 8-2. Dawn Baldry scored a hat-trick this time, beating Nikita Tkachuk (7-11, 11-5, 11-8, 11-6), Alex Tkachuk (11-13, 11-7, 11-6, 11-7) and Luke Richardson (11-3, 15-17, 11-2, 11-5). Alex Tkachuk excelled for the losers, defeating Hamish Innes (12-10, 7-11, 11-5, 6-11, 11-9). Chelmsford F in turn drew 5-5 against Danbury K. New comer Sam Phillips was unbeaten for Danbury and he was well supported by Nicky Reece-Ford who won twice. Without Sam Phillips Danbury K did not fare so well and they lost 8-2 to Hatfield Peverel B – Peverel’s first win of the Season. Paul Mulley led the way with three wins whilst Michael Lucey and Phil Shippen both won twice. Phil Shippen fought back from 2-0 down to beat Mo Hardy 5-11, 9-11, 11-9, 11-2, 11-8. It was honours even between Chelmsford E and Writtle D as Robert Garson won his three singles for Writtle D.  OCA D did well to beat the higher placed Danbury H 7-3. Richard Baxter and Richard Upson both won their three singles.

Chelmsford A reasserted themselves as the team to beat in division one. Daniel Young, James Liddiard and Gary Young hammered Galleywood A 10-0, their third maximum points win of the Season. It’s easy to see why they’re top. James Hicks put up a terrific fight against Daniel Young before succumbing 11-8, 6-11, 18-16, 3-11, 10-12. Danbury B shared the points with Writtle A. Ace defender Duncan Taylor won his three singles for Writtle whilst Sam Lowman and Daniel Piggott both won twice for Danbury. Daniel Piggott pipped Lee McHugh 11-7, 11-8, 11-13, 8-11, 14-12 whilst Sam Lowman defeated Lee McHugh 11-9, 8-11, 11-9, 11-9. A strong Danbury C team beat Chelmsford C 8-2. Keith Adams, in his first game of the Season led the way with three wins. Chelmsford’s Simon Jarvis did well to beat Trevor Lloyd 3-11, 11-8, 5-11, 11-4, 11-6. Chelmsford C did better against Chelmsford B, drawing 5-5. No one player stayed undefeated and no one went home empty handed either. Charlie Craig beat Simon Jarvis 7-11, 8-11, 11-8, 11-7, 11-4 and Rob Shrimpton 11-9, 11-9, 11-7 but he missed out against Mark Allaway 8-11, 11-7, 5-11, 4-11. A very good win for Mark.

Chelmsford D and Danbury G, the top two teams in division two, both won this week. Chelmsford D disposed of OCA C 7-3. Saul Chivers was undefeated whilst Mick Richardson showed up well for the Old Chelmsfordians side beating Sudheep Kamma 11-5, 12-10, 0-11, 10-12, 11-8 and Vineeth Kamma 11-9, 12-10, 11-6.   Danbury G went one better; they beat Writtle C 8-2. Sanjay Saptarshi led the way with a hat-trick whilst David Gatheral won twice. David Gatheral certainly got his “money’s-worth” in this match. He beat John Webber 11-8, 11-9, 9-11, 10-12, 14-12 and John Gagg 12-14, 6-11, 11-5, 12-10, 11-8 but he missed out to John Parodi 11-8, 7-11, 11-7, 8-11, 9-11. Danbury G also drew 5-5 against Writtle B. Danbury’s Sanjay Saptarshi and David Gatheral and Writtle’s Trevor Collin and Paul Sturton all won twice. David Gatheral beat Trevor Collin 6-11, 8-11, 13-11, 11-5, 14-12 in the pick of the night’s action.  It was also “honours even” between Writtle B and Danbury F. Trevor Collin was undefeated for Writtle B this time. Rod Maclennan beat Ken Sheard 9-11, 11-5, 11-6, 11-13, 13-11 in the closest game of the evening. Danbury F ran out narrow 6-4 winners against OCA C. Good going as Mick Richardson was unbeaten for the Old Chelmsfordians team.  Ken Sheard prevailed against David Porter, just, 11-8, 11-13, 11-8, 7-11, 13-11.

Leaders Chelmsford H made it six wins out of six in division four, by beating OCA E 7-3. Harry Chivers and Joachin Mapes were both undefeated with Chivers making it a superb 18 wins out of 18. Farooq Ahmed gave Joachin Mapes all kinds of problems before he missed out 12-10, 6-11, 9-11, 11-6, 10-12. Chelmsford G drew 5-5 with Galleywood C. Colin Blore was undefeated for Galleywood whilst Steve Peacock beat Jason Clark 9-11, 15-13, 12-10, 5-11, 11-8 in the closest game of the night. Chelmsford G also beat Highwood B 8-2. Newcomer Vasile Barbulet secured hist first “full house” of the Season and he beat Francis Whitbread 12-14, 11-5, 11-6, 11-2 in the last game of the night. Danbury L stay second and they beat Writtle C 8-2. Denis Crapnell retained his 100 % record and he beat Ian Hockley 11-9, 11-3, 11-7, Dave Moles 11-7, 9-11, 10-12, 11-4, 11-1 and Neil Thompson 12-10, 11-9, 8-11, 5-11, 11-5.

Hatfield Peverel D secured two big wins in division five and they top the table with 46 points although Buttsbury (35 points) have played two games less. They beat Maldon C 9-1 after Roger Slade and Phil West had carried all before them and they defeated OCA F 8-2 with Roger Slade again remaining undefeated. Stuart Wintle picked up two wins for the OCA side and this included a hard fought 11-5, 9-11, 7-11, 11-6, 11-9 victory against Pete Mortensen. Chelmsford J ran out 7-3 winners against Danbury N. Peter Davenport won his three singles and he completed an excellent evening’s work by beating Ron Tam 11-5, 11-7, 11-6.

It has proved to be a very productive week for Buttsbury Bees who won three times in division 1A of the Junior League. They beat Buttsbury Bats 3-2 with Jamie Elliott ‘s two wins giving them the edge. Elliott beat George Hagland 11-8, 11-8, 11-7 and George Standish 2-11, 11-9, 11-8, 11-9. Jamie Elliott has only lost once in eight games. With Jamie Elliott joined by Jacob Lawrence they also beat Chelmsford Leopards 5-0 and with Jacob Lawrence paired up with Ben Brown they defeated Chelmsford Panthers 5-0. Panthers were represented by Arnav Kumar and Samaksh Sirohi who have been playing for Chelmsford Antelopes in division 1C. Samaksh pushed Jacob Lawrence really hard before succumbing 12-10, 8-11, 8-11, 14-16. Chelmsford Pumas beat Chelmsford Tigers 4-1. Oliver Cheung won twice for the Pumas beating Aarav Mehta 11-4, 11-5, 8-11, 11-8 and Soumil Jain 11-7, 11-7, 11-4. Chelmsford Panthers also beat Chelmsford Tigers 3-2. Aarav Mehta was unbeaten for the Tigers and he saw off Harrison Hill 6-11, 13-11, 11-6, 11-6 and Richard Carter 11-8, 14-12, 14-12. Chelmsford Leopards were indebted to Cleon Fernandes in their 3-2 win over Buttsbury Bats. Cleon won twice, beating George Standish 6-11, 11-1, 11-2, 11-4 and George Hagland 11-7, 11-4, 11-5.

Writtle Rattlesnakes top the table in division 1B. Archie Pummel won twice as they beat Chelmsford Tigers 4-1. Emilie Guilloux went down fighting, just succumbing 12-10, 6-11, 13-11, 8-11, 10-12.

Chelmsford Cougars are second in division 1C and Felix Reeve and Dan Lewis were both undefeated as they beat Chelmsford Eagles 5-0. Dan Lewis beat Harel Choo 7-11, 12-10, 11-4, 11-13, 11-8 in the pick of the night’s action.   

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

Lee Mchugh hat trick as Writtle A stun leaders Chelmsford A

First division leaders Chelmsford A suffered their first defeat in the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League this week, against Writtle A by a heavy 8-2 margin,  in what must be one of the shocks of the Season. Writtle’s Lee McHugh scored a magnificent hat-trick beating Kim Shead (8-11, 11-4, 11-6, 11-6), Gary Young (11-9, 6-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-5), and Daniel Young (14-12, 11-8, 4-11, 11-9). Duncan Taylor and newcomer Liam Harris both won twice in what was clearly a great night for Writtle. Liam Harris won two cliff-hangers; 9-11, 8-11, 11-6, 15-13, 11-9 against Daniel Young and 11-8, 11-5, 7-11, 8-11, 16-14 against Kim Shead. Ian Wall made his debut for Danbury A against Danbury C and his three wins were instrumental in enabling Danbury A to share the points. Ian Whiteside showed up well for Danbury C with wins over Dave Richardson (11-8, 7-11, 11-8, 11-5) and Neil Want (7-11, 11-6, 11-6, 11-6). Danbury B did well to beat OCA A 6-4, good going as Mark Mulley was undefeated for the Old Chelmsfordians team.   Sam Lowman and Matthew Stringer balanced the books by both winning twice. This result means Danbury B have climbed into second place with 32 points.  

First played second in division two and in such a tight division it was fitting that it finished tied at 5-5. Chelmsford D’s rapidly improving Saul Chivers, ranked 265 on the League ranking list made a mockery of this particular piece of data with three wins whilst Chris Buer and Gus Heath both won twice for Danbury D.  Saul Chivers disposed of Chris Buer 11-6, 11-5, 5-11, 15-13 in his first game. Danbury D who are tied with Chelmsford D on 35 points beat Danbury F 8-2. This time Gus Heath and Steve Buer won their three singles whilst Chris Buer missed out against Tim Pulham 9-11, 12-10, 11-13, 11-8, 10-12. Quite a battle !. The “Martin Archie success story” continues and his three wins helped Hatfield Peverel A beat Writtle C 6-4. Archie powered his way to a 11-7, 11-5, 11-3 win over Gary Ward; Ward’s first defeat of the Season. Team work was the order of the day as Danbury E beat OCA B 6-4. Neil Want, Dick Wyman and Tony Forster all won twice whilst Trevor Carter bagged two wins for the Old Chelmsfordians side. Dick Wyman defeated Gareth Joice by the odd looking scoreline of 9-11, 11-9, 11-6, 16-18, 11-1.

Leaders Galleywood B turned out a strong team of Bryn Thomas, James Hicks and John Holland in division three and they powered their way to a 9-1 win over OCA D. The OCA side had to wait until the last game to register a success, and Richard Baxter made no mistake beating Bryn Thomas 11-9, 11-7, 11-6. Baxter also had fierce battles against James Hicks, succumbing 14-12, 7-11, 7-11, 16-18 and against John Holland, missing out 7-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-4, 10-12. Danbury J, led by unbeaten performances by Dave Marsh and John Robinson ran out 7-3 winners against Chelmsford E. Robinson fought back from 2-0 down to beat Adi Kamma 6-11, 9-11, 11-8, 13-11, 12-10. Maldon A, who are second made it five wins out of five by beating OCA D 7-3. Dawn Baldry, Hamish Innes and Brian Riedling all picked up two wins for Maldon. Richard Baxter won twice for the Old Chelmsfordians side and this included a 9-11, 4-11, 11-6, 11-9, 13-11 victory against Hamish Innes. It was honours even between Writtle D and Danbury H. Bob Garson was unbeaten for Writtle D whilst Richard Allen and Dave Powell both won twice for the Danbury team. Richard Allen defeated Dave Carter 7-11, 9-11, 11-6, 11-8, 14-12 in a nail-biting last game of the evening.

Galleywood C were the week’s big winners in division four, and they recorded an eye-catching 9-1  win against Maldon B. Colin Blore and Will Goodchild were both undefeated whilst Ron Salton won twice.  Ron Salton edged out Shirley Carroll 8-11. 8-11, 12-10, 11-8, 11-8. Leaders Chelmsford H ran out 7-3 winners over Danbury L. Harry Chivers was undefeated whilst Joachin Mapes picked up two wins. Harry Chivers remains undefeated with a record of 15 wins out of 15. Writtle E beat Highwood A 8-2, courtesy of unbeaten outings for Dave Moles and Ian Hockley. Keith Fitz-John impressed for the losers with a 9-11, 11-7, 9-11, 11-6, 11-9 victory over Malcolm Storey.

Division five produced three clear-cut sets of winners. Hatfield Peverel C beat Chelmsford J 9-1 after Richard Drozd and Mick Carter had stayed undefeated. Mick Carter gave Hatfield Peverel a winning start by beating Peter Davenport 11-9, 6-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-8 in the opening game. Danbury M also won 9-1. Norman Hayes and Paul Thirkettle were unbeaten against Danbury N. This time it was Norman Hayes who gave Danbury M that important winning start, by beating Graham Naggs 11-7, 7-11, 6-11, 11-6, 11-5.  Buttsbury beat Hatfield Peverel E 8-2. They lead the way and Ray Horton (three wins), Keith Cullen (two wins) and Frances Hutt (two wins) all played a part in their success.

In division 1 A of the Chelmsford Junior League Buttsbury Bees emerged as 3-2 winners over Chelmsford Pumas.  Jamie Elliot and Ben Brown won one each for Buttsbury whilst Ben Chivers won twice for Chelmsford Pumas. He beat Jamie Elliott by a last gasp 11-9, 10-12, 12-10, 9-11, 11-9 margin. No shortage of excitement there. Buttsbury Bats ran out 4-1 winners over Chelmsford Tigers. George Hagland won his two games, and this included a hard fought 8-11, 8-11, 11-6, 12-10, 11-8 success against Harrison Hill.

Buttsbury Badgers top the division 1 B table with 15 points, level on points with Chelmsford Wildcats, but they could only beat Chelmsford Jaguars 3-2. Emilie Guilloux won twice for the Jaguars beating Harry Hutt (11-7, 11-9, 4-11, 11-8) and Oscar Hutt (9-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-6). Second placed Chelmsford Wildcats missed out against Buttsbury Beavers 3-2. Harry Hutt and Oscar Hutt were representing Buttsbury Beavers this time and Harry Hutt won twice, beating Malachi O’Leary (11-9, 12-14, 11-4, 11-7) and Harrison Hill (11-6, 11-7, 11-5). Writtle Rattlesnakes who have games in hand are very much in contention and they beat Buttsbury Badgers 4-1. Elliot Gardiner won twice, beating Harry Hutt (11-5, 12-10, 2-11, 11-7) and Oscar Hutt (11-7, 11-1,11-5).     

There is no stopping Chelmsford Antelopes in division 1C. Their record of 29 points out of 30 tells it’s own story. Samaksh Sirohi and Arnav Kumar were 5-0 winners against Chelmsford Eagles. Buttsbury Bulldogs are second, 14 points adrift. Adhuna Das was undefeated as they beat Chelmsford Falcons 4-1. Harel Choo beat Callum Webster (7-11, 11-3, 11-7, 11-9) to register for Chelmsford Falcons. Chelmsford Cougars complete this week’s results with a 4-1 win against Writtle Racoons. Harrison Hill won twice, beating Oliver Smith-French (11-13, 11-9, 11-4, 11-4) and Blake Webster (11-4, 11-4, 12-10).     

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