13/11/2024
Peter Birtwistle was known as 'Mr Lancashire Badminton'
After spending 5 years as a Prisoner of War in World War II German POW Camps, as a keen sportsman he eventually returned home to Lancashire and the Markland Hill Tennis and Badminton Club in Bolton to fulfil his interests in both racquet sports
He was selected and represented Markland Hill Club, Lancashire County and for his Country when playing multiple times for the England Badminton Team
After his playing days came to an end, he became one of the sports great philanthropic administrators with a particular passion for Lancashire County Badminton - being founding Chairman which he continued to be for over 30 years before later taking on the role of President
He was held in such high regard that he also became President of the Badminton Association of England (later to be known as Badminton England) for a number of years and worked tirelessly for both organisations in developing and growing Badminton both for the benefit of players and spectators alike
As well as being heavily involved with Lancashire Senior County Badminton he also recognised the importance of supporting the large numbers of Junior Badminton players who were now showing great promise through the Club, County and Country system
Always forward thinking, Peter introduced the 'Birtwistle Award' in 1990 which was a financial reward presented to The Outstanding Lancashire Junior Player of the Year - this continues to be presented and the recipients continue to be grateful to Mr Birtwistle for his lasting legacy of support on their Badminton journey
