Isle of Man Badminton Association’s annual business tournament took place at the National Sports Centre on Saturday.

Members of the Association assisted in the running of the event, and this year saw a new sponsor involved, Utmost Wealth Solutions.

The tournament winners were a team from Utmost with Lloyds Bank International runners-up.

The event saw business teams take part in an afternoon of badminton matches organised in a round robin format, with each side consisting of a women’s, men’s and two mixed doubles teams.

The afternoon was a great opportunity for new players to get involved in badminton in a relaxed atmosphere.

Businesses had the opportunity to practice for the tournament using the association’s ’No Strings’ sessions which take place on Saturday mornings at the NSC.

This was highlighted by the high standard of play shown.

Head of Utmost Community Shaun Lewis said: ’We were delighted to be asked to sponsor the tournament this year. We took part two years ago and we thought it was a great event and a great way to drum up interest in badminton.

’When we confirmed that we were entering the tournament, our staff started booking out courts and turning up to ’No Strings’ sessions. Thank you to the badminton association and in particular Kerry Quayle for putting on a great event and we look forward to entering again next year.’

Badminton development officer Quayle added: ’I am extremely grateful to our new sponsor Utmost Wealth Solutions. They have been brilliant to work with and were able to enter two teams in support of the event.

’It was a fantastic afternoon which saw people of different ages and abilities, all competing in our sport and having fun.’