First John Forster tennis tournament a big success.

Knaresborough King James Tennis Club (KKJTC) has celebrated its inaugural John Forster tennis tournament in style. The fledgling tournament and associated shield trophy were instigated following the passing this summer of John Forster, 85, a pillar of Knaresborough’s community.

John, a career teacher and latterly headmaster of King James’ School for 16 years, was instrumental in setting up the tennis courts at King James’ for both school and community use and was a founding member of Knaresborough Tennis Club. Later he became the schools’ co-ordinator of the Yorkshire LTA and chaired the funding committee. Amongst a multitude of other achievements, he also set up the Knaresborough Fun Run which has brought joy to many local residents and raised thousands of pounds for charity.

The very first John Forster tournament was organised by John’s son Mike Forster, who said: “Dad loved his sport being a devoted runner, tennis player and Leeds United fan. His contribution to KKJTC over the years is incalculable and I’m absolutely thrilled that the club decided to create this tournament in his memory.”

Although very close-fought, the inaugural event was won by Andy Little and Jeanette Bowden, stalwarts of KKJTC’s mixed teams competing in the Harrogate District Tennis League.

Mike Forster added: “It was without doubt the best turnout we’ve ever had for a club tournament with dozens of participants, so I’d like to thank everyone who took part for a fitting tribute to Dad. He would have been competing if he could! He was always passionate about getting people involved in sport especially pupils from local schools and he would have been very pleased to know that the tournament will be contested every year now. We are proud that our club reflects my Dad’s principles of being friendly and welcoming to all standards of player, so if anyone would like to join us, do please get in touch.”

For more information please visit Knaresborough King James’s Tennis Club website here.