LAST week saw Ards Table Tennis Club bring its Spring League to a conclusion.
Locals who were around the sporting scene back in the 1960s era will have glowing memories of how the game held a prominent position in Newtownards and the wider borough.
The Ards and the Glenford clubs both competed at the highest levels and during the 60s brought the prestigious All-Ireland trophy to Newtownards.
Needless to say that double-dose of sporting achievement made the headlines glow with praise and triumph. Without any real exit strategy, table tennis slipped from the local sporting stage shortly after those glory days and it is only in recent times that it has returned.
Billy Mateer has stepped in as secretary of the newly-formed club and the members have worked very hard to put together a spring competition.
That particular tournament was staged in the Queen’s Hall in Newtownards and last Wednesday, the Carryduff team triumphed over competition favourites Ballyclare after a very close and exciting match.
Congratulations and thanks to the teams from Ards, Ormeau and Ballymena for their support as table tennis firmly returned to the local scene.
