Tennis stars of the future head to Wirral

Jan 25 2012 by Helen Hunt, Birkenhead News

WIRRAL is hosting a prestigious tennis tournament that attracted up and coming tennis stars from around the world.

Wirral Tennis and Leisure Centre in Bidston was chosen by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) to host an AEGON GB Pro-Series event, which began on Sunday and runs until this Saturday.

More than 100 players from around the world are taking part in the Futures tournament, including leading Britons Dan Evans (ranked 6th in the UK) and Josh Goodall (ranked 12th in the UK in doubles), competing for the $15,000 (£9,739) purse and bidding to make the step up to join players on the ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) tour circuit.

AEGON GB Pro-Series events are held all over the UK and take place throughout the year at clubs and leisure centres across the UK.

For many players these events are their first steps on the professional ladder as they aim to progress to the main tours and are a chance for tennis fans to watch some stars of the future in action.

Cllr Chris Meaden, Wirral Council cabinet member for culture, tourism and leisure, said: “This is a real coup for the borough. Not only is it a massive endorsement of the quality of the facilities we offer at the tennis centre, but attracting such a big tournament to the area also provides a boost to local hotels, restaurants and shops.”

The AEGON GB Pro-Series events are part of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) men’s circuit and are co-ordinated by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), the sport’s governing body in this country.

Winning the right to stage the competition in Wirral follows on from the Wirral Tennis and Leisure Centre being awarded with Beacon Status by the LTA last year which recognised it had first-rate facilities.

Beacon Status was an accolade for the centre because it means it can access additional sources of funding, as well as benefiting from increased promotion and endorsement from the LTA.

Space at the competition may be limited, but spectators are welcome at the tournament. Admission is free.