Men’s doubles badminton tournament at Sunset Rooms, Wisbech St Mary off to bright start

The first ever non-league men’s doubles badminton tournament was held on Sunday at the new Sunset Rooms, Wisbech St Mary Sports and Community Centre.

There was a tremendous turn-out of 16 men competing for first prize. Play was friendly yet competitive. Some players had never been in a tournament before.

Organiser and coach Nishi Varma said: “There was a great mixture of teams. It was fantastic to see play in such a supportive environment.”

In total 112 games were played.

Third place players Kevin Towle and David Saunders, both teachers at a local school, said: “We’ve only played with the children at school. We played as a team and came third.”

Nishi Varma’s own coach Charlie Butterford commented: “This was indeed an event that brought badminton communities together and encouraged group participation and sports camaraderie.”

The final for first and second place was hard-fought with a very close score. Overall winners to take the trophy Tony Leach and Andy Bennett came off court exhilarated, if a bit surprised.

Pay and play sessions are held at the Hudson Leisure Centre, Wisbech, on Mondays 7-8pm (mixed) £2, Wednesdays 7-8pm (ladies only) £2; and at the Sunset Rooms, Wisbech St Mary 7-10pm (mixed) £3.

Pictured: Winners Tony Leach and Andy Bennett.