Spalding Town Tennis Club hosted its first charity tennis tournament in memory of Steve Machin MBE.
He was a town resident and had been a much-loved member of the club as well as a Spalding Rugby Club coach.
Steve was head of counter terrorism at Whitemoor Prison and was awarded the MBE for his heroism when involved in disarming a terrorist attacker on London Bridge in 2019.
After Steve passed away, last year, a small group of close friends and club members came up with the idea of a charity tennis event, to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support and to celebrate Steve’s life.
The tournament proved to be a massive success, with a doubles competition plus raffle, auction and barbecue.
All proceeds went to Macmillan with the initial target of £500 smashed with a staggering final total raised of £2,850.
Thanks were expressed to everyone who supported and gave so generously.
Despite the threat of thunderstorms all week, the event was blessed with sunshine, up until five minutes after the final match was played, when the heavens opened.
Special guest on the day was Peterborough United Football Club captain Harrison Burrows, who took part in the tournament, partnering Steve’s son Ollie Machin. He also donated a signed Peterborough United shirt, which was auctioned for charity. Numerous local businesses showed amazing support by generously donating raffle prizes too.
The Steve Machin Memorial Shield was won by Chris Argent and Ian Brookes, who came out victorious in a closely fought final against Michael Pearl and Caleb Ansell.
A club spokesman said: “Spalding Town Tennis were honoured to host such a special tribute to a well respected and much missed member of the club.
“An amazing day was had by all that attended, full of happiness and laughter, in memory of a much loved and respected friend and family man.”
Charity tournament winners Ian Brookes and Chris Argent with the Steve Machin Memorial Shield.
Runners-up Caleb Ansell and Michael Pearl.
