TWO tennis players from Swindon have been highlighted as being among the brightest talents in the country after they were included on the LTA’s Aegon FutureStars programme.

Ema Lazic, 13, who trains at West Hants and Niamh Townsend, 12, who trains at Next Generation, have earned their place following a successful year on court and will receive added support from the authority in 2013.

Nine-year-old Stanley Brown from Chippenham, who trains at Next Generation, is also included in the 486-strong group.

The LTA’s head of men’s and women’s tennis, Leon Smith, said: “We are committed to identifying and supporting our most talented players, and the Aegon FutureStars programme is central to this process for young players who are starting out in the game.

“It’s a long journey for any player hoping to make an impact, but we hope that with the right support, these players are given the best possible chance of reaching their full potential.”

British number two Heather Watson added: “It’s great that these players have been chosen to join the squad.

“I hope these players use this support to help them achieve their dream of playing at the highest level.”