A north tennis coach has scooped a lifetime achievement award after inspiring generations of youngsters on the court.
Yvonne Birnie, of Rothiemurchus and Aviemore Tennis Club, was awarded the accolade at the Tennis Scotland Awards.
It recognises her outstanding commitment and dedication to the sport and the club, which she joined in 1986.
Mrs Birnie, who has been playing tennis since she was a youngster, said: “I was very surprised, first of all, but absolutely delighted.
“It’s been a team effort. Although I was the driving force behind everything that has happened at the tennis club, the committee has been great and the members have all been raising funds as well.
“I have been playing since I was a wee girl, it’s in the blood I think. I am very competitive and I do enjoy competitive tennis and playing in a team, it’s great.”
During her career, she has overseen the installation of three courts and a covered court, making the Inverdruie venue one of the best in the country.
She added: “It’s been very rewarding to see it complete and seeing it being busy as well.
“I am glad to see tennis benefiting from it.”
Meanwhile, Aberdeen’s Under 12’s Boys North Country Cup team scooped the Team of the Year award following a successful 12 months.
All 13 winners will be celebrate their achievements at a ceremony at a later date.
Blane Dodds, Tennis Scotland chief executive, said: “We were truly overwhelmed by the quality of nominations we received so each and every winner should be very proud of their achievement, as should everyone who was shortlisted for an award.
“They are the driving force behind our sport and it’s important that we take the time to acknowledge their contributions to tennis in Scotland.”
Highland tennis coaches nominated for lifetime achievement awards
The winners will now be considered for the LTA Tennis Awards.
