EADT and Ipswich Star tennis writer Peter Mornard picked up the Active Waveney Lifetime Achievement award on Friday but is determined to carry on his good work.

Peter, who is standing down after 28 years as the LTA National Council representative, has contributed 43 years to tennis in Suffolk, filling several roles including Assistant Secretary, Coaching Chairman, Schools Chairman and Chairman of Tournaments and is currently serving as vice-president.

He also enjoyed the role as assistant referee at Wimbledon and while that carries much prestige, tennis in Suffolk remains close to his heart.

“The big challenge in the country is to try and increase membership and clubs are crying out for that,” said the veteran.

“There is no easy answer to how we do that as times are hard at the moment and there are not a lot of full-time members at clubs.”

Peter won the award ahead of two other very deserving contenders in veteran long-distance runner Clive Sparkes and Ipswich Hockey Club’s Sandra Lister, who won bronze with Team GB at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona

“For tennis to be at the forefront of the awards was fantastic but my award represents a team effort,” he added. “I was probably a bit gobsmacked when my name was read out and I nearly fell off my chair but it was wonderful to be recognised. It was nice that I had the chance to share the stage with the other two contenders as well and say well done to them as they have both made big contributions to their sport too.”

As for the highlights of a long and illustrious career, one he is keen to continue?

“Many people might have said Wimbledon, and that was a fantastic experience, but I have also enjoyed working in a close team at the Suffolk LTA.”