THE ten-year extension that has been granted to the $250,000 Ilkley Trophy has been called "a terrific vote of confidence from the Lawn Tennis Association".

The pre-Wimbledon tournament, which was backed by Aegon until last year, is now secure on the international calendar until 2028.

Stephen Hepplewhite, chairman of hosts Ilkley Lawn Tennis & Squash Club, said: "The whole team, including volunteers, have worked extremely hard to make the Ilkley Trophy an event that exceeds all expectations, and this is a terrific vote of confidence from the LTA.

"We believe that our event is the top tennis tournament, not only in Yorkshire but in the North of England.

"This backing of the LTA tells us that the future is bright for tennis across the region and we look forward to players past and future visiting and enjoying all that the club, tournament and area have to offer."

This year's Ilkley Trophy will be held from June 16-24, and Richard Joyner - tournament director for the LTA - said:

"The Ilkley Trophy has quickly become a significant event, with the club clearly showing that it can hold its own alongside more established world-class tournaments.

"The championship highlights a big appetite among local people for tennis at this level, so we're very pleased to be able to confirm its place on the tour for the next ten years."

Since its inception in 2015, the Ilkley Trophy has attracted former British No 1 Laura Robson, 18-time Grand Slam doubles champion Leander Paes and 2017 champion Magdalena Rybarikova, who three weeks later reached the semi-finals at Wimbledon.

Tickets for 2018 are on sale at www.theticketfactory.com/ltaci/online/