The University of Central Lancashire is to host its first ever Junior Open Tennis Tournament at the Preston Sports Arena on Tom Benson Way.

The tournament will run from July 29 to August 4 and cater for players aged eight to 16.

Jan Peace, development manager at the arena, feels the event will trigger plans for the future development of tennis. She said: "The courts here are some of the best public courts in Preston and we are keen to encourage local people to use them.

"As Wimbledon approaches we wanted to do something to kick-start tennis here and a junior tournament should do just that."

The tournament will include a full day's play for boys and girls aged eight to ten and then singles and doubles events for boys and girls aged up to 16. Finals' day will be on Saturday, August 4 and prizes will be awarded to all finalists.

"We can't guarantee the weather, TV coverage or thousands of spectators.

"But we are hoping this first ever tennis tournament will prove as popular locally as Wimbledon does nationally," said Jan Peace.

Youngsters are invited to enter as individuals or with a partner for the doubles matches.

For more details contact the Arena on 761000, call into the reception or e-mail.

Drop a line...Click here...