The annual Ralph Swingler open doubles tournament kicked off the season in style at Letchworth Tennis Club. The tournament attracted its usual strong entry with players looking to sharpen up their doubles skills ahead of the coming season. Saturday was th

The annual Ralph Swingler open doubles tournament kicked off the season in style at Letchworth Tennis Club.

The tournament attracted its usual strong entry with players looking to sharpen up their doubles skills ahead of the coming season.

Saturday was the turn of the ladies' doubles which was dominated by a strong local entry.

Doubles specialists Wendy Job and Wendy Cottenden took the title for the first time after overcoming Letchworth rivals Janine Stanton and Della Gibson in a final distinguished by their tactical acumen and stylish stroke-making.

The men's doubles final was also contested by Letchworth club players.

First team supremo Tim Fitzpatrick celebrated Chelsea's Premiership title by partnering Richard Staff to overcome Karl Albon and Chris Gardiner in a hard-hitting final.

The victory marked a triumphant return for Staff whose winter season was wrecked by a shoulder injury.

His return bodes well for the club's men's first team which is strongly fancied to regain the Herts League title this summer.

The event was sponsored by Hitchin's Toni and Guy Salon.