LIZA SMITH has announced her retirement from badminton after a fine career as a doubles specialist. Herts Badminton Association Chairman of Selectors, Paul Widdicombe, paid tribute to the star from Park Street, formerly Liza Parker until she got married

LIZA SMITH has announced her retirement from badminton after a fine career as a doubles specialist.

Herts Badminton Association Chairman of Selectors, Paul Widdicombe, paid tribute to the star from Park Street, formerly Liza Parker until she got married in 2007. He said: "Liza has represented Herts as a junior and senior with great distinction over the last 15 years, I wish her every success in future years."

Liza, aged 27, was English Nationals mixed doubles runner up with Robin Middleton in February and reached number 14 in the world in mixed doubles and number 15 in women's doubles as well as being number three in England in women's doubles. She also reached the National finals in both mixed (with Kristian Roebuck) and women's doubles (with Suzanne Rayappan) in 2004.

In 2004, Liza won both mixed and women's doubles at the Canadian Open as well as winning the Norwegian and Iceland women's doubles titles. Liza said: "I didn't get to play in an Olympics, Commonwealth or European Championships. I suppose it was not meant to be. But many people have not been fortunate enough to be in my position. I have made some great friendships and travelled the world through badminton. One of my best memories was reaching the last 16 at the 2005 world championships in Anaheim with Suzanne."

Liza made her debut for England when she played women's doubles with Jo

Davies against China in 1999 and went on to win six caps.