The Mayor of Dudley served up a civic seal of approval when he popped into an ‘ace’ tennis club.

Quarry Bank Tennis Club were highly commended at the Mayor’s Ball and Civic Awards last month when they came third in the Duncan Edwards award for sport.

The Mayor popped in to the club, off Talbots Lane, on Friday to formally present them with their certificate in recognition of their outstanding contribution to sport.

He met coaches Nikki Parkes and Stacey Billingham, and youngsters who signed up to the Easter tennis club.

Councillor Steve Waltho, Mayor of Dudley, said:

“It’s great to see the young tennis stars of the future being put through their paces, and it’s clear to see from the way the club is run why they were nominated for the Duncan Edwards award for sport.

“Local sports clubs such as this help young people not only to learn new skills but to lead happy and healthy lifestyles too.” 

The two coaches were one of three nominations for the Duncan Edwards award for sport at the Mayor’s Ball and Civic Awards, on March 18. The Mayor praised all three nominees before announcing eventual winner Zara Jade Turton, who has represented Great Britain in rhythm gymnastics.

The club, set up six years ago, currently has around 50 children and 50 adults taking part in training sessions.

Nikki Parkes won the regional tennis championships at under 18s level while Stacey Billingham was once ranked 250 in the whole world at under 19s.