To guarantee more space for a record crowd of spectators, The International Women's Open tennis championship will come back to Devonshire Park between 14 and 21 June 2008--a great chance for visitors of Devonshire!

The Tier II event of WTA has been hosted by Eastbourne's Devonshire Park since 1975. Remarkably, last year's championship drew the biggest crowd in its 32-year history. With this background, it is expected that over 40,000 spectators will pour in to cheer up the thrilling tournament that serves as the main event of pre-Wimbledon.

Cllr Steve Wallis, Eastbourne Borough Council Spokesperson for Tourism remarked, "I am delighted that the tennis is returning to Eastbourne next year. It is a major sporting event not just in Eastbourne and the southeast region, but internationally too, with top tennis stars from around the world always keen to take part. The tennis championships have been an important part of the town's history for many years and I can't wait to see what exciting contests 2008 will bring."

Last year witnessed an exciting tournament finale between Justine Henin Amelie Mauresmo, who are world number one and world number four respectively. At the end of a gripping two and a half hours of game, Henin emerged victorious to retain the title she won in 2006.

Starting from 4th February, the tickets for the LTA International Women's Open will be on sale. To know more, visit www.visiteastbourne.com or www.eastbourne.lta.org.uk .