George is holiding court '“ at 90

Sprightly pensioner George Ramsden still loves his sport.

And even though he may be giving away a few years to his “youthful” opponents, he still gives them a good run for their money at Broughton and District Club near Preston.

While the nation marks the 90th birthday of its monarch, members of the club’s tennis section had their own celebration when their oldest member challenged players old and new to a game on his 90th birthday.

George still plays regularly at the club.

He started playing at the age of 18 when he joined the Army, and later met his wife Irene on the courts at Haslam Park.

The couple have been married for more than 60 years, and live nearby in the village.

George served as President of the Club in 1979, and played regularly in the Ribble League club team.

One-time partner David Welton remembered how they won the trophy “a good many years ago” and they both still have it on their mantelpiece.

George, who has a son and a daughter and four grandchildren, was joined for a party at the club by friends and relatives including his son Peter who had flown in from Australia.

Peter said: “He loves to play – many of his opponents are in their 60s and 70s. He still plays twice a week. He is very fit and active.”

George paid tribute to the club, saying he would never have been able to play for so long without their support and friendship. Said George: “I can just turn up and join in on a club morning when I feel like it”.