COVID has caused us all a variety of problems recently - one of which is that we have been unable to fully award trophies personally to winners. One such award is the Tony Hickson award made annually to a key figure who has contributed a lot to the game of Badminton in our league. This may be at a club level but more especially at a league level.

During the season that we were interrupted (2019/20) the decision has already been made to award the trophy to Tony Marks of Northwich. Tony has been a key figure at Northwich over the years most recently in the role of Chairman. For five years until his retirement in 2019/20 season Tony has also been our Tournament Secretary. During that time he made a great success of our tournaments and we are grateful for that contribution.

We have always tried to ensure that the trophies are presented in a proper formal setting where people can give due applause for the winners efforts. Formal situations have been a bit scarce recently. Now, restrictions are lifted, we are able to resume normal service. Last Friday night a small delegation of league officials gate crashed the Northwich club night at the Grange school (new home venue of Northwich). With the covert help of club stalwart Mark McGlinchey, Dave Sumner and Brian Horrocks turned up, trophy in hand, to surprise Tony. The Northwich faithful were regaled with a few tales of Tony's tenure, not least the fact that in his first two years in charge he was responsible for the handicapping for the Vets tournament and won the Mens doubles event (with Mark McGlinchey!! - do we suspect anything here? the answer is an emphatic NO, those of us present saw him and Mark play some great badminton and win deservedly). Other than his dogged determination to support Everton FC, Tony has been flawless in his support of the league, and our thanks go to him.

Photo attached