UP and coming tennis players are battling it out this week for glory at the annual Stellison Junior Open tournament this week.

The event at Westcliff Hardcourts started on Monday and culminates with the finals on Saturday.

And it is not only younger players in action as organisers are running a men’s and ladies’ event alongside the junior one too.

It is the second time the adult competition has been included and is being officiated by experienced coach and referee Chris Drewe.

“We decided to do this because the demand is there and the standard amongst local men and women high,” said tournament organiser Graham Broadley.

“This year’s Stellison Junior Open also promises to be a exciting tennis tournament with a full entry list and a chance to see some of Essex’s top junior players in action.”

The junior open is an LTA Grade 4 ranking event and features players aged 12 to 18. It is sponsored by local company Stellisons.

Admission is free for spectators and refreshments are available at the club, which is in The Ridgeway, Chalkwell.