Three Ilkley players are among the brightest talents in the country.

Jacob Thompson, aged nine, ten-year-old Joe Kelt and Amber Woffindin, who is 11, have been included on the Lawn Tennis Association’s (LTA) Aegon FutureStars programme, which recognises and supports some of the best juniors in the country.

The emerging young stars have earned their place on the programme following a successful year on court and will now receive added support from the LTA.

Jacob, Joe and Amber are part of the 2014 intake of players, which numbers 424, and will receive varying levels of funding and support.

Leon Smith, LTA head of men’s tennis, said: “We are committed to supporting and identifying our most talented players, and the Aegon FutureStars programme is central to this process for young players who are starting out in the game.

“There’s obviously a long way to go for these players. It’s a long journey for any player hoping to make an impact on the game but we hope that with the right support, these players are given the best possible chance of reaching their full potential.”

David Macmillan, chief marketing officer at Aegon, added: “We’re delighted to continue supporting the LTA in identifying and developing young players across the country.

“As a business, we believe that preparation is key, and the Aegon FutureStars programme plays an essential role in enabling young people to fulfill their potential, and make the next step in their tennis journey.”