England’s David McBeath on the Mountbatten Hospice Charity Tournament, a terrific event which 44 players entered, including 30 who travelled from the mainland.

The tournament was organised by the Isle of Wight Table Tennis Association in aid of the Island’s Mountbatten Hospice, which is dedicated to providing a range of end of life care and support for people with life-limiting conditions.

The level of table tennis ability was extremely high and there were some excellent matches.

The best performance by an Island player came from Steve Mills, who reached the quarter-finals. Last year’s winner Matt Ware beat Adam Laws in the first semi-final and McBeath beat Owen Brown in the other semi; and it was David who prevailed beating Matt in an exciting final.

The winner received £500, the runner up £250 and the two semi finalists received £250 each. There was a special award (Bribar Voucher) for outstanding performance, which went to Chun Kin Lee.

The trophy was presented to David by Alex Rorke, IoW Table Tennis chairman (pictured above), who thanked everyone for their attendance and their support, in particular, Rob Smith (organiser), Pat Thorley (refreshments) and Martin Dove (table tennis centre manager).

Alex said: “The Association is delighted to organise this event. A high standard of play was clearly evident. I would like to thank all those involved with organising this tournament.”

David McBeath was obviously delighted to win. He said: “This was a thoroughly enjoyable and well organised tournament. The Island is very fortunate to have such a good table tennis venue.”

Runner-up, Matt Ware said: “This is a lovely tournament. There’s great hospitality and everyone is very welcoming and friendly.”