Wizard of Oz: Lily Mills in action

ONE of Islington’s brightest tennis stars is heading out to Australia next week to take part in one of the world’s most prestigious competitions – thanks in part to funding from the council.

Islington donated £2,000 to help Lily Mills of Highbury compete in the Australian Open’s Persons with Intellectual Impairments (PWII) Championships, which begin next Friday in Melbourne.

Lily, 23, suffered early complications after being diagnosed with both meningitis and septicaemia as a baby, leaving her with cognitive impairments, including learning disabilities, short-term memory loss, poor coordination and a tremor.

She was later diagnosed with the rare condition that means she is unable to tolerate lactose.

“We’re so grateful to the tennis community who have rallied around Lily to make this journey possible,” her mother Tallulah Bayley said.

“This opportunity means the world to Lily, and we are overjoyed to be heading to Melbourne later this month.”

Acknowledging the path to success has not always run smoothly for the young tennis star – who has won numerous trophies and medals at regional, national and international levels – she added: “Lily’s journey not only represents a personal triumph but also stands as a symbol of inclusivity and empowerment in sports.”

She thanked Islington for the donation to support her daughter in her dream to challenge in one of the world’s most respected tournaments.

Lily trains at the Islington Tennis Centre, in Market Road near York Way, after picking up a racket aged five, and lives in Drayton Park.

Cllr Nurullah Turan, lead councillor for health and social care, said: “When we heard about Lily’s story we were inspired by her commit­ment to tennis, and were delighted to be able to help.”