A YOUNG tennis player from Holcombe Brook Tennis Club has been selected to be one of 30 ball kids at this year’s Barclays ATP World Tour Finals.

Holly Clark, aged 13, has joined the world’s best tennis players on court at London’s O2 arena this week for the showpiece event, after “smashing” her way through the competition at a Ball Kids competition run by Barclays.

Holly, who lives in Manor Road, Horwich was tested on her agility, endurance, co-ordination and ball skills at the trial event at St George’s Park and was announced as one of 30 youngsters chosen from the 100 who entered.

Holly, who plays for the Ramsbottom club, had already made her way through regional trials, where 700 young hopefuls originally competed.

The ATP finals, which take place until November 16, showcase the best eight qualified male single players and doubles teams on the planet.

After being selected, Holly said: “I just can’t believe it – the whole experience is going to be something I will never forget and I cannot wait to share a court with the world’s best tennis players.”

She added: “I think to be a good ball kid I will have to stay focussed – because you always have to be alert when you’re on court at the O2.”

Holly has been a tennis fan from an early age, first picking up a racquet at the age of four and has competed at national tennis tournaments in the past.

The youngster, who attends St Michael’s school in Chorley added: “Tennis has always been my passion – I especially love playing doubles with my older sister.”