A Teesdale tennis stalwart has been rewarded for her years of sterling service.
Pauline Connelly was first introduced to the sport as a toddler when she watched her parents Eileen and Dennis play on the courts behind the Bowes Museum.
It was the start of a lifelong connection to Barnard Castle Tennis Club that she still maintains to this day.
And that dedication and commitment to the club was recognised when she received the prestigious Harry and David Thomas Memorial Award.
Clubs within Durham & Cleveland Lawn Tennis Association are annually requested to nominate an individual who deserves recognition for voluntary work carried out within their club over many years.
What makes the recognition even more special for Pauline is the fact that her late mother Eileen received the same award in 2004.
“It’s really nice to be recognised for all the years of service on behalf of the club,” she told the Mercury. “I wasn’t expecting it, it has certainly come out of the blue.
“And the fact that nobody else from Barney has had the award in Barney, just mum and I, makes it even more special.
“I’ve been on the tennis committee from when I was a junior member aged 14 and I’m still involved.”
Pauline was presented with her award at the Durham & Cleveland Tennis Association 2026 annual awards ceremony at Hardwick Hall.
The event was attended by Lawn Tennis Association president Sandi Proctor.
