Friends, family and fellow tennis enthusiasts gathered at Bourne Green Tennis Club to pay tribute to the late Betty Murley, who passed away at the age of 90 in August 2023.<br />The dedication took place on Sunday, December 17 with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque in her honour.<br />Colin Essex, a respected LTA and BTCA tennis coach, shared heartfelt memories of his 15-year coaching journey with Betty.<br />Despite initial skepticism from other coaches who deemed her "too old" at the age of 75, Colin took Betty under his wing and became not only her coach but a close friend.<br />"Betty was incredible," Colin said. "Until March this year Betty turned up almost every week in all weathers in my ladies group sessions, always receptive to new tennis skills.<br />"She loved match play and was always able to keep score accurately. She was a joy on the court and taught us all that age is just a number.<br />"She will be sorely missed."<br />Colin, who also coaches Sir Cliff Richard in Barbados every February, added Betty was thrilled she shared a coach with Cliff for so many years.<br />To honour Betty's legacy, Colin requested the placement of a plaque on the tennis court bench, which was officially unveiled during the ceremony. Betty's daughters, who traveled from Scotland, cut the ribbon in a touching moment witnessed by the gathered ladies.<br />The ceremony also included the release of two balloons – one with 'BETTY' written on it and the other with 'TENNIS', capturing the essence of Betty's love for the sport.
