Skinner skins rivals at Bognor squash finals

In the mens’ competition it was all change at the top with a new champion. Recently returning to the sport after an injury-hit absence, Grant Skinner made his mark on the evening featuring in three squash finals.

In the men’s, having disposed of previous title-holder Steve Porter in an earlier round, Skinner overcame a strong challenge from Paul Thompson to secure a 3-1 victory.

These two joined forces in the doubles against the 2012 winners, father and son team Paul and Luke Allen, and again the newcomers triumphed.

The ladies’ title was again contested by sisters Gail and Emma Cuthbert, with Gail again proving too strong - winning 3-0 and retaining her crown.

In the plate, Steve Carruthers secured victory over Robert Norman.

The final match of the evening, the handicap, was a real crowd-pleaser as Skinner took on Brian Cuthbert, who took full advantage of the points difference to triumph 2-0.

Earlier in the week, the veterans competition had been contested by the ubiquitous Skinner and Rod Everett, with the former coming out on top in the first of what proved to be three title battles.

After presentation of trophies by Sports Club chairman Ray Kidd, there was a disco and buffet.

Results - Men’s: Grant Skinner bt Paul Thompson; Ladies’: Gail Cuthbert bt Emma Cuthbert; Doubles: Grant Skinner/Paul Thompson bt Paul Allen/Luke Allen; Veterans’: Grant Skinner bt Rod Everett; Plate: Steve Carruthers bt Robert Norman; Handicap: Brian Cuthbert bt Grant Skinner; 1st team player of season: Steve Enfield; 2nd team player of season: Steve Darlington; Best junior: James Norman; Most improved player: Will Burley.