IN APRIL the Worcester Observer teamed up with the Aegon Classic – the prestigious all-female tennis tournament held in Birmingham – in a search for local inspirational women.
There were many entries, but one woman really stood out as a pillar of the community. Yvonne Parker is the Christian Aid Co-ordinator for St George’s Church in Barbourne.
In this role she supports the amazing work carried out by the charity across the world.
Yvonne is also Treasurer for the local Cherry Orchard Ladies Club, a position she has held for 14 years, and is a loving wife, mother and grandmother.
As winner of the competition, Yvonne has claimed an all-expenses paid, VIP trip to the Aegon Classic tennis final on Sunday 15th June for herself and a friend.
Not only will Yvonne see an exciting game of tennis, but she’ll also get to watch an exhibition doubles match between 18-time Grand Slam champion Martina Navratilova, Anne Keothavong, Tim Henman and Jamie Murray.
The exhibition match, will be part of Rally for Bally, the series of activity which aims to raise money for the Elena Baltacha Academy of Tennis and the Royal Marsden Hospital in memory of former British number one Elena Baltacha who died of liver cancer last month.
On hearing the news that she has been named the Aegon Classic’s local heroine, Yvonne said: “I had no idea I had been nominated so it was quite a shock when I was told I had won.
“It’s a real honour to be recognised for my work as a Christian Aid co-ordinator because the charity means a lot to me. The projects it funds and manages help people all over the world in very difficult situations.
“I’m really looking forward to my VIP trip to finals day as I’m sure it will be a very exciting match.”
The Aegon Classic is held at Birmingham’s Edgbaston Priory Club from Saturday 9th to Sunday 15th June. Recently upgraded to a WTA Premier Level event, the tournament is now one of the top 21 tennis events in the world – offering sporting fans in the Midlands the chance to see some top-rate tennis on their home turf.
Tickets start from as little as £15 per person and are available at www.aegonclassic.co.uk/tickets.
For more information, visit www.aegonclassic.co.uk, @BritishTennis, or call 0844 209 7359* (Calls cost 6p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge).
