A successful tennis club, forced to disband after its club house burned down, is holding its first championship finals in 18 years.

Wallington Tennis Club was established over 40 years ago but, when the club house burned down in 1994, players left for other clubs and never came back.

Wallington tennis looked to be lost forever until, in 1999, two tennis-loving friends decided it was time to revive the club’s fortunes.

Their aim was to establish affordable tennis for the community and to encourage families and young people to get involved. Now, ten years later, they are celebrating their success by holding their first inter-club championships in 18 years.

Bea Ralph was one of those friends and is now president of the club.

She said: “We are really proud of our finals day and of the level of support for the club from our members.”

The club’s championship finals will take place at Wallington Sports Club in Hillside Gardens, on September 19.

* Do you have an old Wallington Tennis Club cup you could donate? Get in touch on 020 8330 9544 or cfox@london.newsquest.co.uk