Fortunately 18th December dawned reasonably warm and dry because Ross Tennis Centre was the venue for an epic match.

Every Friday during the year a group of men, ranging in age from young middle aged to nearly ancient, play between 09.00 and 10.30 to be followed by a group of ladies whose ages I cannot even begin to guess or divulge.

In any event good banter is exchanged between the groups until Chris Friend, owner, supremo and benevolent dictator, suggested his ladies would beat the men. His challenge was immediately taken up and on 18th December this epic match took place.

Sixteen men and ladies played a series of half hour games starting at 9am and finishing at 10.30am, when coffee and mince pies were available – to be followed by the second series of matches at 11am which were completed at 12.30pm.

It was an enormously enjoyable occasion which set the tone for the Christmas festivities that followed – oh, yes, the men managed to win, so whether the ladies will issue a challenge in 2016, well readers, you will have to wait and see.

If they do then I’m sure you will be able to read about it in the Ross Gazette.

Report by Chris Friend