DESPITE atrocious weather a total of 15 teenagers took part in the Hastings & Co Borders 14 and under boys and girls singles at Kelso on Saturday.

Thankfully, by the time of the finals the heavy rain had passed and the weather-hardened spectators were treated to some magnificent matches.

The girls played in a round robin group resulting in a final between Earlston pair Mhairi Buchanan and Amy McDougall.

This was a very close affair with both players using a wide variety of forehands, backhands and volleys to great effect before Mhairi emerged as the winner 5-4 (7-5) 5-3.

The boys final featured the same players as last year - but on this occasion Lewis Watt from Galashiels reversed the result by beating Lachlan Ferguson of Selkirk in a very tense game.

With some brilliant baseline groundstroke play, hard services, volleys and smashes Lewis won over his valiant rival 5-4 (7-4) 3-5 (10-3).

The boys consolation final was even closer.

It turned into a spectators' feast with tennis of a very high standard between Alexander Hart of St Boswells and Earlston's Jamie Damarell.

Alexander emerged the victor 4-2 4-5 (5-7) (10-7).

Organiser Lesley Thomas thanked Hastings and Co, all the players and supporters for braving the elements, Gregor Welsh who cleared the surface water, as well as Ella Laing and her team for all the baking and catering.

Honorary Member David Laing presented the trophies and prizes.

On Friday evening Kelso under 18 boys team travelled to Peebles with coach, Lee Brown.

The team won by 6 -0 in games.

Amongst the triumphant team was 11 year old Joshua Mackellar – a definite future star for Kelso!!