The Isle of Wight charity tournament for the local Mountbatten Hospice saw a terrific day’s play, culminating in a top-class final.

This annual tournament is in aid of the local hospice which is dedicated to providing care and support for people with life limiting conditions. A total of 48 players entered, 35 of whom came from the mainland.

After a full 10 hours of play, the final was between Matt Ware (a winner of this event twice previously) and David McBeath (winner in 2024). 

Matt beat Adam Klos in the semi-finals, whilst in the other one, David beat Luke Greenfield (a semi-finalist last year as well).

In the final, David beat Matt, with both players exhibiting some top-class table tennis. Both David and Matt expressed their appreciation of this tournament and they mentioned the friendly and welcoming attitude of everyone and the great hospitality.

The best performances by Island players came from Scott Lawson and Steve Mills, who both reached the last 16.

Mention should be made of 12-year-old Sai Kumar, possibly a young star of the future, who entertained the spectators with some excellent table tennis.

Isle of Wight Table Tennis Association chairman, Alex Rorke, presented the trophy to David McBeath with a cheque for £500. Runner-up, Matt Ware, received a cheque for £250.

The amount raised for the Mountbatten Hospice is expected to be in the region of £1,500.

IoW Table Tennis chairman, Alex Rorke said: “Our Association is delighted to have organised this tournament for the fifth consecutive year. A really high standard of play was evident. I would like to thank all those involved in organising this tournament.”