HAMPSHIRE Centrecourt was the venue for a mixed American tennis tournament held in memory of Julian Lance, who played in the Basingstoke and District, Newbury and Hampshire and Isle of Wight tennis leagues for over 25 years.

He played for Portals, which was close to his family home in Overton and, in more recent years, was a founder member at Centrecourt.

Lance was well known around the local courts, achieving success at singles and doubles at Centrecourt and in 2000 he became Basingstoke veteran men's doubles champion.

The tournament, organised by Maureen Hewitson and Bob Wood received considerable support from Centrecourt management and playing staff, the Basingstoke league, and the many friends and relatives of Lance.

Some 40 players participated in the tennis and 70 guests were present at the buffet afterwards at which Sue Lance, wife of Julian, presented the cup to Julie Frankland and Barry Aldridge. Wendy Eling and Andy Small were runners-up.

The event, set to be staged annually, raised more than £600 for St Michael's Hospice.