NORTH Yorkshire players are invited to compete in Britain's largest junior national tennis tournament, the Fred Perry Junior Challenge.

The competition offers youngsters, aged nine to 18, the chance to compete in a leading tournament, for exceptional prizes, whatever their standard.

Based on a unique postal format, which allows the early rounds to be played locally at tennis clubs or on public courts, the Challenge gives every youngster the chance to compete.

The eventual champion's will win Fred Perry clothing contracts, a day out at a Grand Slam tennis event and the opportunity to play alongside the Wimbledon stars at the Fred Perry Junior Challenge Finals, during the prestigious Club Med Cup.

All entrants will receive a free Fred Perry shirt and an invitation to tennis coaching clinics.

The 2001 champions included Britain's number one under-16 player, Katie O'Brien, from Hull, who also played in the Wimbledon junior event. At the other end of the draw, 100 of the 1,500 entrants were playing their first ever tournament.

Last year's under-12 winner - Devon's Jade Curtis - represented Great Britain in her age group.

Entries close on October 31 and entry forms can be obtained by calling the Fred Perry Junior Challenge office on 0207 8620078 or from www.fredperry.com.

Updated: 12:01 Friday, October 05, 2001