THE annual Bradford Schools Senior Tennis Tournament saw Ilkley Grammar School enter two teams in a tournament which unfortunately only involved two other schools but still managed to produce an excellent standard of tennis.

The action began with Ilkley A's Emma Tweddle, Catherine Brown and Tessa Hutchinson, beating South Craven 6-2, 6-4 in what everyone had predicted was to be the closest match of the day. Meanwhile Ilkley Bs Rosie Townsley, Katie Appleyard and Emma Davies lost a hard fought-match against Nab Wood A.

The lack of opposition meant that the two Ilkley teams met in the third round. The good natured battle which ensued summed up the general atmosphere of the event. The B team continued to perform well but were unable to convert their efforts into success.

As the tournament progressed it became apparent that Nab Wood A were the team to beat. The matches began with both teams holding serve but as temperatures rose both on and off court Ilkley gained the ascendancy with Tweddle winning the singles match 6-4.

The pressure now lay on the doubles pairing of Brown and Hutchinson. Both couples were playing tentatively but the greater efforts of the Ilkley girls led them through to win 6-5. The tournament ended with a comfortable victory over Nab Wood to crown Ilkley champions.

The players were thankful to Miss Haigh and Mrs Ravensdale for their support but quote of the day came from team manager Becky Farrow who said: 'I've done all I can, it's up to you now girls'.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.