A TENNIS coach from Rhyl has scooped an Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) Award for his devotion to his local club at the governing body’s annual ceremony.

Taking place at The Championships, Wimbledon, on July 3, Jonathon Dawes was one of 17 winners and was presented with his award by presenter and lifestyle & fitness blogger, Chessie King.

16-year-old Jonathon from Rhyl Tennis Club, won 'Young Person of the Year' for his efforts within his local community.

He has independently set up, and run, a variety of fun tennis sessions for students after school, and during half term as a reward for pupils with great attendance.

His biggest achievement was running a Tennis Skills week at Rhyl High School which gave more than 1,000 children the opportunity to play the sport.

Jonathan has also led fun sessions for disabled children, as well as multiple competitions and events both locally and nationally, impacting hundreds of people.

Outside of school, he commits his weekends to volunteering and has also been awarded with a British Citizen Award for Volunteering in 2018.

Speaking on winning his latest accolade, Jonathan said: “It feels absolutely amazing, when I heard my name I couldn’t believe it. I feel absolutely ecstatic to be given this award today for the work I do at my local club and school.

“I think I’ll be volunteering for the rest of my life and it’s encouraged me to do more this summer, I’ve already got all my tennis for kids programmes going on but I’m really going to push it this summer and start growing tennis more in my area.”

Simon Johnson, CEO Tennis Wales added: “This is such great recognition for a young person who has already contributed so much to tennis in North Wales. Jonathon is a shining example to other young people, who love their sport and want to get involved, that you can help, lead, inspire and support others to play tennis wherever you are”.