The local community in North Wales is throwing its support behind the highest-level tennis tournament to be held in Wales for almost 30 years.

The countdown is on to October’s Lexus Wrexham Open – which will be hosted by Wrexham Tennis & Padel Centre – and it has captured the imagination of locals looking forward to world class women’s tennis coming to the city.

Tickets are selling well for a tournament which is set to feature both established and rising British and international stars, including players ranked in the world’s top 100.

Wrexham schools will provide the ball crew, while an enthusiastic team of volunteer helpers, many from across North Wales, has also been assembled.

Dave Courteen, tournament promoter, said: “There’s so much excitement as we move ever closer to the Lexus Wrexham Open taking place for the first time.

“It’s the biggest women’s tennis tournament in the UK this year, outside of the grass court season, and it will deliver such a brilliant level of world class tennis for people to enjoy watching close to home.

“We are delighted with how ticket sales are going – it shows there is a strong appetite for tennis in the area.

“The response has been excellent with people snapping up match tickets, as well as tickets for the hospitality events that will be running throughout a busy week. The whole week will be a real festival of tennis.”

Dave added: “What’s particularly pleasing is the level of support there clearly is for the tournament from people of all ages in the local area.

“The region’s business community has signed up in impressive numbers to be event sponsors, which is fantastic news.

“Wrexham schools are keen for pupils to be involved as part of the ball crew, with training starting soon. It’s an exciting opportunity for the children and they are really looking forward to it.

“It’s the same with the many volunteers from North Wales who have come forward to carry out a variety of important roles during the week of the tournament.

“An event of this stature could not go ahead without their dedication and willingness to offer their time to be part of the team, so it’s hugely appreciated.”

The Lexus Wrexham Open, the highest-level tennis tournament played in Wales since the Rover British Clay Court Championships in Cardiff in 1996, will take place between October 19-26.

Stands to accommodate up to 800 spectators each day will be assembled next to the host venue’s indoor courts, while the matches will be live streamed to a global audience.

The tournament also has its own newly launched podcast, Wrexham Ready, which will give listeners an insight into what they can expect from October’s prestigious event.

Hosted by Rose Courteen, who is currently studying for a degree in broadcast journalism at MediaCity in Salford, the initial 10 episodes are currently being recorded at different venues across Wrexham.

Daily podcasts, including interviews with the players, will also be available to listen to during tournament week.

“The Lexus Wrexham Open is such an exciting new addition to the city and we want the podcast to introduce listeners to lots of the people involved and the roles they will play,” said Rose.

“It will provide a behind the scenes look at the preparations for the event, offering an insight into many different aspects.

“The podcast is available to listen to from all the usual providers, including Spotify and Apple, by searching for Wrexham Ready, so we encourage people to subscribe to make sure they don’t miss any of the episodes.”

Tickets for the Lexus Wrexham Open can be purchased from the tournament website at www.wrexhamopentennis.com/tickets-and-events/#tickets

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