A reception was held at the National Championships on Sunday, 27th March for the sponsors, Mark Bates Ltd and China Taiping Insurance (UK) Co Ltd, along with some local Honorary Life Members and Vice Presidents of the Association and the Mayor of Nottingham.

As well as having the opportunity to meet the new CEO, Adrian Christy, express thanks to the sponsors and chat with old friends, it enabled outstanding presentations from the 2021 AGM to be made.

It was a pleasure to see Peter Charters receive the Keith Ponting President’s Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement, richly deserved as he truly has given a lifetime of service to table tennis. Former England international, triple European Champion, multiple medallist at World Championships and holder of 15 National Championship titles, Mary Wright (nee Shannon), received her belated Vice-President’s medal.

Additionally, a certificate of appreciation was presented to Richard J Hudson on his retirement as organiser of ESTTA/Schools Team Championships Finals after 19 years.

It was a very pleasant way to spend an hour and partake of a delightful light buffet, especially those cakes!

All photos by Diane Webb.