COULD Jack Batchelor become the next generation’s Andy Murray?

The ten-year-old York tennis junior has been highlighted as one of the brightest talents in the country after being included in the Lawn Tennis Association’s Aegon FutureStars programme.

The scheme aims to support talented young players and Batchelor, from Dunnington, earned his place on the programme following his early exploits on the court.

Batchelor, who has been playing tennis since he was six, is part of an intake of 424 top juniors from around the country and will receive funding and support from the LTA.

Mum Joanne said: “Jack was picked up in the talent identification when he was eight and he trains three times at a week at the high performance centre in Hull.

“He has played for Yorkshire and he takes part in North of England competitions and in national tournaments.

“Jack finished fourth in the last national tournament and has just been invited to the National Tennis Centre as one of the top eight in his age group in the country.”

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.”

For more information, log on to www.lta.org.uk