A STALWART of squash who has organised fixtures, draws and trophies for Dorset’s junior players over the last two decades is standing down from her role with the county.

Janet Biles, who lives in Broad-mayne and is a member of Weymouth Squash and Fitness Centre, was presented with flowers and gifts by Dorset Squash and Racketball after revealing her decision to step aside as the county’s junior manager.

After moving to the area from Kent 24 years ago, Biles volunteered to run the ladies’ league and act as Summer Cup organiser.

Her association with the juniors began when one of her sons started to play and she has been junior manager ever since.

The number of children involved in Dorset squash has risen steadily in the last few years with an average of 100 players, aged between seven and 18 years old, taking part in Grand Prix tournaments.

Over the last 12 months, more than 70 junior players have taken part in these squash competitions.

And after the most recent at the West Hants Club it was time for Biles and David Williams, chairman of Dorset Squash and Racketball, to hand out the awards for the season.

The club player award was presented to Ben Skidmore (Dorchester) and the Biles Trophy went to Ellie Corben for showing great improvement, attitude and sportsmanship.

The Lanz Trophy was given to Philip Sargeant (West Hants) for being an excellent ambassador to the younger players.

His sportsmanship on and off the court was rewarded, as well as his representation of each inter-county age group and being county champion in all of those.

COUNTY TEAM AWARDS

Team players of year (chosen by the team managers)

Under-17 boys: Rory Bell (West Hants)

Under-15 boys: Ben Smith (Dorchester)

Under-13 boys: Michael Rides (Two Riversmeet)

Under-11 boys: Joe Pannell (West Hants), James Campbell-Wynter (Two Riversmeet)

Under-13 girls: Lucy Hill (West Hants)

Under-15 girls: Abbi Hurd (West Hants)

Overall team player: Maia Pannell (West Hants)

Williams thanked Biles for all she has done to promote junior squash in Dorset and spoke of her incredible dedication and energy, describing her as a “real treasure”.

Her role is being taken over by Bev Vatcher from the West Hants Club.