TENNIS officials are involved in a race against time as they bid to attract sponsors for the National Premier Indoor League finals, due to be held at Next Generation, Hull Road, York from March 26-28.

Eight regional finalists from England, Scotland and Wales are due to play the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final at the York venue, but so far the tournament organisers haven't raised the finance needed to host the event.

There will be strong local interest as Next Generation, led by South African ATP Tour player, Marius Barnard, have already qualified for the final stages.

Barnard, the NG head coach, said today: "We have been trying to get sponsorship from local first and businesses for three months, but haven't been very successful and so there is a real danger that the tournament won't take place.

"We need four or five companies to come up with something like £2,000 each which will assist with all the expenses surrounding such a prestigious event. Hotels, printing, hiring of stands and prize money for the professionals all have to be paid for.

"It is hoped to have a children's clinic involving York area schools and also have a pro-am where a business could nominate an employee to play with a professional taking part in the finals."

Barnard said he would be pleased to hear from anyone interested in sponsorship. He can be contacted on 07739 154974.

Updated: 10:03 Saturday, February 14, 2004