It was good news for tennis in Ilkley as OHS, the Bradford based occupational health and safety consultants, and Skipton Building Society confirmed their sponsorship of this year's Ilkley Open Tennis Tournament.

This year will be 106th tournament, and it will run from Saturday, July 27, to Saturday, August 3.

The event continues to be recognised as one of the premier tournaments in the North of England and it will attract the cream of the up and coming British players.

This year the tournament will include the tier one British tour men's and ladies' singles, and this higher status (last year was a tier 2 event) will ensure that tennis of the highest quality will be on view.

Billy Kerr, General Manager Ilkley Lawn Tennis and Squash Club said: "The Ilkley Open continues to be one of the highlights of the year and we are delighted that Skipton Building Society and OHS are continuing their support."

Andrew Munro of Skipton Building Society added: "We are proud to continue our sponsorship of this event. This is the third year that we have been associated with the Ilkley Open and it is a great pleasure to support an event that helps introduce new sporting talent. I am sure that this year's event will match the success of the last two years."

Martin Penny, Managing Director of OHS, said: " We are delighted to continue our ongoing relationship with Ilkley Lawn Tennis and Squash Club and in particular the Ilkley Open which continues to be one of the best grass court events in the country."

Details of the event will be published locally in mid July and can also be accessed through the club's website www.iltsc.co.uk .

Following the success of last year where for the first time there was no charge for spectators, this year will also have free entry, as the aim is to encourage local support for the event.