Half a century is a long time to be part of a club.

But those years have brought joy to 87-year-old John Mitchell, whose membership of The Bourne Club has been celebrated with a Lifetime Legacy Award.

John Mitchell has been recognised for his dedication, service and contribution to The Bourne Club community since he joined in 1974.

John joined the club as a squash player, regularly taking part in singles and doubles leagues every week. Six years into his membership, he decided to try his hand at tennis and quickly fell in love with the sport.

In 1980 he joined the Breakfast Cup which comprised a group of 20 tennis players and was last awarded to one of the players in 2011.

John said: “I am truly honoured to receive such a wonderful award.

“When I joined The Bourne Club all those years ago, I never thought for a moment that I would still be dabbling in tennis over 50 years later.

“The club has brought me tremendous joy over the years, from playing to socialising. I have many happy memories on the courts, winning and losing!

“Most importantly, I have made some lifelong friends who have become an instrumental part of my life.”

Steve Matthews, out-going club president who presented the award, said: “John embodies the spirit of The Bourne Club.

“His unwavering support, sportsmanship, and volunteerism have left a lasting impact on generations of members and as such, we are thrilled to honour him with this well-deserved lifetime membership.”

John has been a keen volunteer elsewhere too. Since retirement he has spent 20 years driving for the charity Care Farnham which provides transport to local residents who need lifts to health-related appointments.

He also volunteered for ten years at the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.