A well-known local woman, described as a tennis trailblazer, is a national winner of a prestigious Lawn Tennis Association award.

Pat Sharp of Laxey has scooped the LTA’s flagship Lifetime Achievement title after being recognised for her long-term commitment to tennis and showing sustained teamwork and leadership.

Now aged 86, she and her husband Bryan first joined Albany Lawn Tennis Club in 1962. Her inspirational exploits have helped revolutionise the sport locally for more than half a century, enabling residents to consistently enjoy their tennis.

Pat was announced as the winner by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester at a live-streamed awards ceremony presented by Great Britain Davis Cup captain Leon Smith.

Mrs Sharp watched the virtual ceremony at the Ballaughton clubhouse with family and friends. ’The noise in the clubhouse when it was announced that I’d won could, I’m sure, be heard a mile away,’ she said.

’I could name 40 to 50 people who, over the 59 years, have contributed to Albany having the best facilities in the island including an indoor court.

’In my earlier days I played, coached and refereed so my interest is still in all aspects of the club and island tennis. The club means a huge amount to me.

’But this award is not just for me, it’s for Albany LTC and Manx tennis and everyone who has worked with me to achieve the facilities and standard of players we enjoy today.’

David Long, chairman of Albany LTC commented: ’This is a truly extraordinary achievement both for Pat and the Isle of Man, won against incredibly strong competition from 2,600 nominations across the UK.’

The LTA Tennis Awards are now in their sixth year and celebrate the achievements and contributions of outstanding tennis volunteers, coaches, officials, venues and players across the country.

Pat was hand-picked as one of 16 national winners recognised at the awards ceremony last week, which honoured individuals involved in tennis at grassroots, county, regional and national level.

She has served on Albany’s committee for all but one year of her membership, has had a huge impact on tennis - and sport in general - in the Isle of Man.

In 1973, Pat helped set up Isle of Man Lawn Tennis Association before later going on to be appointed to the new IoM Sports Council in 1990.

She then received the LTA Meritorious Service award for services to Manx tennis a decade later.

Her passion for junior tennis has inspired thousands of children to pick up a racket while her fundraising efforts have led to a new clubhouse and the Isle of Man’s first indoor tennis court.

To find out more information about the LTA Tennis Awards or for information on how to play, coach, volunteer or officiate in tennis, head to www.lta.org.uk