Ely now boasts a new national champion as Neil Weir and his doubles partner John Guest won gold at the English National Pickleball Doubles in the 60+ division.

The pair triumphed at Bolton Arena, marking a significant achievement in the rapidly growing sport of pickleball.

Pickleball, which combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is played with a small plastic ball with holes.

Neil Weir (left) and John Guest, medal winners at Bolton Arena Neil Weir (left) and John Guest, medal winners at Bolton Arena (Image: Submitted) The sport has gained popularity worldwide and is eyeing future Olympic inclusion.

Mr Weir, a regular player at the Ely & District u3a, has been a keen member since the interest group started in January 2023.

He entered the competition solo, but was later approached by Mr Guest, also a singles competitor, via email to form a partnership.

New Ely national champion as Neil Weir wins in Bolton New Ely national champion as Neil Weir wins in Bolton (Image: Submitted) Their initial aim was to progress through the qualifiers in their first contest.

However, they exceeded expectations by winning the final, which was the best of three games, with a tense 11-9 victory.

Mr Weir’s strategy of taking it "one game at a time" paid off, and he continues to be a regular and formidable opponent in Ely and Waterbeach.