A field of 48 players descended on the Isle of Wight Table Tennis Centre at Smallbrook for the annual Mountbatten Charity Tournament, raising £1,800 for Mountbatten Hospice.
The 2026 Mountbatten Charity Tournament attracted competitors from across the country, with 30 of the 48 entrants making the journey from the mainland.
Held annually by the Isle of Wight Table Tennis Association, the event raises money for Mountbatten Hospice and has become an increasingly popular fixture on the table tennis calendar, attracting players of a very high standard.
A total prize fund of £1,000 was on offer, with the winner receiving £500, the runner-up £250 and the losing semi-finalists £125 each.
The best performances from Island players came from Steve Mills and Scott Lawson, who both reached the last 16.
Defending champion Matt Ware defeated Luke Greenfield in the first semi-final, while David McBeath overcame Adam Klos in the second. McBeath then beat Ware in an exciting final, repeating the showdown between the pair from 2 years ago.
Alex Rorke, chairman of the Isle of Wight Table Tennis Association, said:
“The Association is delighted to organise this event. A high standard of play was clearly evident. I would like to thank all those involved with organising this tournament.”
Mr Rorke presented the trophy to McBeath and thanked everyone for their attendance and support, paying particular tribute to organiser Rob Smith and Pat Thorley for providing refreshments.
McBeath said:
“This was a thoroughly enjoyable and well organised tournament. The Island has good table tennis facilities.”
Runner-up Matt Ware added:
“I was pleased to come back to the Island for this tournament for the fourth time. There’s great hospitality and everyone is very welcoming and friendly.”
The Association also thanked sponsors Woodcliffe Holiday Apartments in Ventnor, The Isle of Wight Cheese Company and The Stable Tea Room in Ryde for helping make the event possible.
Members of the IWTTA will soon present a cheque for £1,800 to Mountbatten Hospice to support its valuable work within the local community.
