KATE Cadigan has retained her crown as the ladies’ Channel Islands squash champion for 2008.

The Jersey player (pictured) came back from a set down to beat former Irish international Olivia French 3-1 in Sunday’s final at the Jersey Squash Club. She said: ‘It was a brilliant game to play, but it was very tough. I lost the first set 9-1 so I had to come from one down, and Olivia is a very good player, so it wasn’t easy.

‘It’s been a great tournament – with new players coming in we’ve seen more strength and depth to the games. I’m pleased to have won the title again this year, especially after a tough match. But Olivia and I play each other again in a few weeks, so I’m sure she’ll be looking to get her own back.’

Former world top 100 player Mike Hopkins fulfilled his top seeding in the men’s final, beating Rob Hickling in three sets.