DOZENS of players turned out for a tennis tournament in memory of a previous winner of The Northern Echo's Local Hero award.

Twenty-four players took part in the Local Heroes Trophy at New Blackwell Tennis Club.

The tournament is held in memory of the club's late president Derek Reeves, who was recognised at the Echo's annual grassroots sport awards.

For the first time in the history of the tournament, there was a tie in both the men's and ladies' competitions.

Joan Curran and Janet Edwards shared the ladies' title, while Seb Stevens and John Davidson won the men's section.

Chairman Gill Reeves said: "It was a fabulous turnout, played in a really good spirit, so thank you to everyone who played.

"There was an interruption when a menacing black cloud approached and unleashed heavy rainfall, but it didn't spoil the fun for long.

We had a magnificent turnout of 24 players so it was lovely to see all six courts in use throughout a competitive afternoon."

Mr Reeves, who won the Local Heroes award in 2004, died in December aged 94.

After receiving his award, the club was presented with The Local Heroes Trophy as a tribute to Mr Reeves , so that his contribution to the club could be remembered with an annual tournament.