KIRBY Tennis Club enjoyed a sunny afternoon for their first American tournament of the year.

Twelve members battled over three rounds before enjoying a well-earned tea break.

The pairs split and mixed their way through five rounds in total, playing with a different partner each time.

Top lady on the day was Emily Watford and she equalled the points tally of top gent Bob Baker.

Club chairman David Austin was close behind, trailing by just one point, and a further point back was Andrew Cartwright.

The tournaments attracted new and old members, allowing for a great sociable afternoon with the benefit of a competitive edge.

New members Mark Partridge and Mark Risley joined in the fun, with the afternoon presided over by Joy Norman.

Sunday also saw Kirby host their Quorn Family Tennis Cup red ball competition, with eight children joined by their parents for seven competitive sets of mini tennis.

The tournament was won by new member Spencer Jacobs, who was playing with his dad, with Joe Plummer coming in a very close second.

There were certificates and prizes for everybody who played and a really enjoyable afternoon was had by all.

Kirby men had a very difficult away tie against two-time finalists David Lloyd Gidea Park in the Essex Tennis Summer Cup.

With some key players unavailable, Kirby lost 4-0 but all the rubbers were very competitive and played with great spirit.

The team of John Howe, Sam Watling, Paul Bryson and Curtis Austin thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and the hospitality of their hosts at Gidea Park.