A TENNIS league has announced its new chairwoman following the tragic death of its chairman last year.

Christine Clark was unanimously elected to take over the role of the Colchester and District Friendly Tennis League following a meeting.

Admitting it is “sad” to take over in such circumstances, Mrs Clark, who has been involved with the league since 1994, said she and the committee will carry on the spirit of the competition.

It follows the death of a loving father and grandfather John Sambrook, who died days after Christmas following a road collision.

Police attended the fatal incident involving a Vauxhall Crossland at about 7.40am on December 27 just outside West Bergholt on the B1508.

Sadly, the driver of the car, 83-year-old Mr Sambrook, of Great Horkesley, died at the scene.

Gazette: Loving dad - John Sambrook, 83, died at the scene after a crash in West BergholtLoving dad - John Sambrook, 83, died at the scene after a crash in West Bergholt

In a joint statement shared with the Gazette, Mr Sambrook’s children, Alison and Robert, said their father will be remembered for his “brilliant sense of humour”.

“John was loved by many who knew him, he had a very busy and active life and was very well known around the Colchester area.”

At the time of his death, Mr Sambrook was chairman of the league.