NOTTINGHAM rising tennis star Joshua Ward-Hibbert has been hailed by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) for a stellar 2012.
The 19-year-old received the award for best individual international performance at the Nottinghamshire LTA Annual Awards Evening.
He joined the likes of Andy Murray and Jonny Marray in winning a Grand Slam title in 2012, after winning the Australian Open boys doubles tournament, alongside fellow Briton Liam Broady.
"2012 was a fantastic year for me," said Ward-Hibbert. "We've had unprecedented success in 2012 with Andy and Jonny winning Grand Slam titles as well as Laura (Robson) and Heather (Watson) making huge strides in the women's game.
"So for Liam and I to win a Grand Slam title of our own was massive. I hope it's the first of many."
Ward-Hibbert was joined by LTA deputy president Cathie Sabin and 200 guests at the event to celebrate the county's top tennis talent.
Sabin was on hand to present the winners with their awards and paid tribute to everyone involved in tennis in the county.
Jill Russell and Marie Benoy were both presented with lifetime achievement awards for their services to the game, while, John Poxon – chairman of the Notts LTA League since 1999 – was also recognised for years of dedication to the sport, winning the prestigious LTA Meritorious Service Award.
Other winners:
Most Improved Junior Boy: Mark Jarratt
Most Improved Junior Girl: Millie-Mae Matthews
Best Individual Domestic Performance: Marcus Walters
Development Coach of the Year: Chris McGill
Performance Coach of the Year: Dave Everington
Volunteer of the Year: Mike and Roz Ditchburn, with Karen Archibold runner-up
Team of the Year: Nottm Tennis Centre U14 Aegon Boys team, with Lady Bay Ladies Aegon Team runner-up
School of the Year: Underwood C of E Primary School
