SOME of the world’s top touchtennis stars will be heading to south-east Essex this weekend to raise funds for Havens Hospices.

The Havens Hospices 100 touchtennis Challenger event is being held at Brentwood Hard Tennis Club on Sunday.

And organiser Chris Phillips believes the tournament, which is being sponsored by Wilkins Kennedy, will prove to be a day to remember.

“It’s fantastic that some of the top touchtennis players are coming down to play in the event this weekend,” said Phillips.

“It’s all being done in support of Havens Hospices and we’ve already raised more than £800 which is great.

“There are nine or 10 of us taking part from the Essex Storm club who are based in Southend and while the games will all be competitive they will also be really good fun.

“That’s what makes touchtennis so enjoyable and it’s good to be able to raise money for such a good cause by putting on something so fun.

World number four Ed Ellis is among those taking part but a whole host of other top players will also be vying for the keenly contested title.

A doubles competition will be taking place alongside the main draw along with a consolation singles event for players eliminated in the first round.

And Paul East, a partner at main sponsors Wilkins Kennedy, is pleased to be supporting the tournament.

“Havens Hospices are our adopted charity for the next couple of years so we’re only too happy to be able to help out with the touchtennis event on Sunday,” said East.

“We hope to be able to raise as much money as we can for them and supporting this weekend’s tournament is certainly part of that.”

Wilkins Kennedy are chartered accountants who have offices in Nelson Street, Southend.

They also have 14 other offices in the south of the country.