AN up-and-coming junior tennis player from Redditch has been highlighted as one of the brightest talents in the country.

Alexander Maggs, 12, has been included in the LTA’sAegon FutureStars programme, which recognises and supports some of the best juniors in the country.

The emerging young star, who plays for Redditch’s HDA Tennis Club, has earned their place on the programme following a successful year on court and will now receive added support from the LTA.

The talented youngster has been included as part of the 2014 intake of players and will be part of a group of 424 top juniors from around the country who all receive varying levels of funding and support from the LTA.

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.”

Maggs won his age group for the second year in a row at the County Closed Championship in September.

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 fulfil their potential.”