Anne Nicolls with Lily Mills, who is busy practising ahead of the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin

ORGANISERS behind a fundraiser aimed at helping a young tennis ace in her bid for further Team GB glory are inviting fellow well-wishers to join in the fun.

Lily Mills is busy practising ahead of the Special Olympics World Games, which are being held in Berlin this summer.

The 22-year-old from Drayton Park in Islington was diagnosed with meningitis and septicaemia as a baby, as well as a condition called galactosemia, which prevents her body from breaking down sugar galactose.

These early complications left Lily with a number of cognitive impairments, including learning disabilities and short-term memory loss.

But that hasn’t stopped her from enjoying unrivalled success on the tennis courts, including in 2019 when she won two gold medals for Team GB at the Special Olympic World Games which were held in Abu Dhabi.

Between getting rackets restrung, extra coaching, travel and food, however, the sport certainly isn’t cheap. That’s why friends and supporters at Mayfield Tennis Club – where Lily trains every Saturday – have stepped in to try and help.

They will be hosting a fun quiz night at the club in Enfield on Saturday, March 4, from 7pm. Tickets cost £12 and include a hot meal.

“Lily just thrives on tennis and is such an inspiration to all of us,” said committee member Anne Nicolls. “She has such passion for the sport and just trains and trains to get where she wants to be.

“When Lily went to Abu Dhabi we helped raise around £4,000. We always want to do as much as we possibly can to help her.”

To book tickets for the quiz night and support Lily call Anne on 07803 952 180.