The hard work and commitment of individuals within Ayrshire’s tennis community has been acknowledged by the sport’s national governing body, the LTA, which has named residents as finalists in four award categories.

Jan Collins of Troon, an influential figure within Ayrshire tennis, has been shortlisted for the Lifetime Achievement Award which honours individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the sport over a prolonged period.

The 91-year-old, nephew of former Scottish tennis player Ian Glen Collins who reached multiple doubles and mixed doubles finals at Wimbledon in the late 20’s and early 30s, has been recognised for many contributions, including coaching in most of South Ayrshire’s primary schools between 1990 and 2008.

Meanwhile, Mark Openshaw of Prestwick has earned a place on the Performance Coach of the Year shortlist, whilst Bethanny Wilson of Prestwick Tennis & Fitness has been named as a finalist in the Young Person of the Year award category.

Ayr resident Colin Hanbridge is in the running for Official of the Year, an award which celebrates referees, umpires and court supervisors who have gone above and beyond since COVID-19 restrictions were introduced.

The shortlist for the Tennis Scotland Awards 2021 has been unveiled to recognise the contribution of individuals, clubs, programmes and competitions which played a key role in helping tennis to thrive last year as participation continued to grow across the nation.

Blane Dodds, Tennis Scotland chief executive, said: “The response of the tennis community played a pivotal role in enabling the safe resumption of tennis in 2020. This year, more than ever before, it feels important to acknowledge exceptional contributions which are being made within our sport.”

“The Tennis Scotland Awards provide the perfect platform to celebrate the success stories of the year. Each shortlisted nominee should be very proud.”