AN Aldbourne Nursing Home resident's lifelong love of promoting and playing tennis has been recognised after she received a top award for the sport on Tuesday.

Dawn Hopkins, 70, was presented with the 2016 Lawn Tennis Association Meritorious Service Award to thank her for outstanding voluntary service she has done to promote the sport over the last 50 years across Wiltshire.

And in her honour, a special presentation was held at 11am at the South Street nursing home with her friends and residents.

"If through my love of tennis I have managed to encourage more young people to pick up a racquet, then my lifelong interest has not been in vain," she said.

"I have loved the game of tennis since I was a 10-year-old. My body may have taking a battering from illness, and I can no longer entirely look after myself, but I am looked after at the outstanding Aldbourne Nursing Home, from where I still organise the Ladies County Seniors tennis teams, with help from the team captains.

"One does not have to give up just because the body is not as robust as it used to be, and the residents here are encouraged to do as much as they can."

Aldbourne Nursing Home manager Helen Peach added: "Dawn is always looking for ways in which she can help our team and residents whether it's laying the tables or making a personalised cushion or card for someone.

"She has also had great pleasure in working with some younger children in the community, sharing her passion for arts and crafts. We are proud of her achievements and love having her in our home."