Cromer Lawn Tennis & Squash Club were thrilled to receive national recognition as they grabbed the LTA’s Competition of the Year Award.

The annual LTA Tennis Awards, presented by Lexus, highlight and celebrate the incredible achievements and contributions of people in tennis across Britain.

Held at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton, Cromer were bestowed the honour of hosting the nation’s best competition - a feat that shocked administrator Susie Malakar, who could not fathom that such a small, local-run club like her own would get their name in lights.

“It’s just unbelievable,” she said. “We honestly didn't think we were going to win.

“It's incredible and we’re delighted. We're such a small club and for a local club like us to come and get national recognition is amazing.”

First launched in 2015 with the help of former LTA president Cathie Sabin OBE, the LTA Awards recognise the vital work of volunteers, coaches, officials, and players dedicating their precious time and energy to the continual development and growth of the sport.

Over the past nine years, the awards have illustrated the depth of service and talent within the tennis community and serve as an inspiration to others to get involved in the game.

Cromer in particular thrive off the selfless work of volunteers, with the club entirely run by members bar one LTA referee.

Jane Bentham, 68, has become entrenched within Cromer as an invaluable volunteer, acting as a prime example of the impact a tennis club can have on the community.

“Our club and our tournament basically runs with volunteers,” Malakar said.

“Jane works multiple days every week, she doesn’t even play tennis. She comes because she loves being part of the team, she loves helping the visitors.

“She just likes being busy and creating a lovely, friendly atmosphere when people come in to the club.”

With players coming far and wide to compete at Cromer, general manager Matthew Jordan believes that is a testament to the quality of the grounds and the positive vibe that surrounds his club.

“They come from one end of the country to the other, and each year you get to know the people that keep coming back each year and so it's great,” Jordan said.

“It's very much a family feel. It's competition and it’s often parents who have played at the club who are bringing their children to play, or coaches who are now bringing their children to play.”

Malakar added: “We have some of the best grass tennis courts in the country, and so I think people come because it's an opportunity to have a family holiday, but also play some great tennis on some fantastic courts.”

LTA President Sandi Procter said: “The ceremony has been a tremendous celebration of the people that make our sport so special.

“The incredible stories behind the finalists are so heart-warming to hear. The hard work and dedication of all the winners and runners-up too is unbelievable, and I am always so impressed by the selfless sacrifice of all the volunteers, officials, and coaches.

“I have always been passionate about the grassroots and the awards are our way of highlighting the extraordinary contribution of the individuals and venues that help us open tennis up bringing new players and fans to the game.’’

The annual LTA Tennis Awards, presented by Lexus.