Despite a howling wind off the sea and fielding a depleted team of just four pairs, Fishbourne pushed Southsea all the way in a closely-fought friendly match on Sunday, 21 August (writes Bob Murray).

The match, an annual summer fixture at the Southsea club, offered Fishbourne the opportunity to defend the trophy won there last year, but it was not to be in 2017, and the home side just pipped us by 77 games to 80. It couldn’t have been much closer.

Representing Fishbourne were Priscilla Pendle and James Course, David Holmes and Catherine Coughlan, Jim Aman and David Farrer, and Sally Atkins and Bob Murray.

Cap’n Bob said: “They’re a great bunch at Southsea and deserved the win. There’s a terrific spirit of friendly rivalry that exists between the two clubs and it’s good to see that flourishing. We will be back next year!”

Our thanks to Andy and the rest of the team at Southsea for hosting us for what was a splendid day’s tennis – and very fine afternoon tea!