BUDDING Andy Murrays will play a key role in a prestigious pro- tournament showcasing future tennis stars which returns to the borough next week.

Wirral Tennis Centre in Bidston will host the Aegon GB Pro-Series for the fifth time from Monday, February 14.

And for the first time in Wirral, it will focus on the women’s game.

Young tennis players from the area will act as ball boys and girls during the tournament, getting a close-up look at some of world’s professionals.

A tennis camp will also take place concurrently at Thorndale Lawn Tennis Club, Wallasey, with attendees visiting Wirral Tennis Centre to watch the Women’s Doubles final towards the end of the tournament.

Belgian Yannick Mertens won last year’s tournament in Bidston, defeating Matija Pecotic of Croatia 6-2 6-4 in the final. Mertens is now ranked 201st in the world.

Cllr Chris Meaden, cabinet member for leisure and culture, said: “There is always a real buzz around the tennis centre when the Aegon GB Pro-Series event takes place. Young people who attend get inspired by watching current and future tennis stars playing very competitive matches.

“Some of our promising young players will also get a unique view of match play as the ball crew, playing their part in one of the UK’s top tournaments.

“It’s doubly exciting that we welcome some of the top female players this year.”

Dave McIndoe, head coach at Thorndale LTC and Wirral Tennis Development Officer said: “This is the first year we will have welcomed the professional women on the circuit to the Wirral.

“This will be without doubt the highest level of sport seen in the borough this year, with players inside the top 200 in the world having taken part in the past.

“A unique aspect to this tournament is how close to the play and the players the public can get.

n The tennis camp will be held from Monday to Friday, February 15, February 19, from 10am to 4pm.

For more details call Dave McIndoe: 07791 964 342.