WICKWAR-BASED tennis ace Megan Webb has been included on the Lawn Tennis Association’s (LTA) Aegon FutureStars programme for the second year in a row.

The 13-year-old emerging star has earned her place on the programme following a successful year on court and will continue to receive added support from the LTA.

The Stroud High School pupil has been included as part of the 2013 intake of players and will be part of a group of 486 top juniors from around the country who all receive varying levels of funding to go towards coaching and support from the LTA.

Webb, who is ranked number one in the county and 13th nationally, triumphed in the Tipton Summer Open, the Newport Winter Regional Tour and the Winter Regional Tour event in Somerset this year.

The Aegon FutureStars programme recognises and supports some of the best juniors in the country based on the individual player’s talent ID assessment for players aged 13 and under, and rankings for all other age groups.

Leon Smith, LTA Head of Men’s and Women’s Tennis, 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 on the game but we hope that with the right support, these players are given the best possible chance of reaching their full potential.”

British No.2 Heather Watson added: “The Aegon FutureStars programme identifies the most talented young players in the country and so it’s great that Megan has been chosen to join the squad.

“I hope Megan uses this support to help her achieve her dream of playing at the highest level.”

Webb continues to be coached by Pete Russell at Virgin Active in Gloucester but has also benefited by attending sessions at the University of Bath Tennis Centre.

Her mum, Sue Webb, said: “At the moment she’s only 13 and she’s enjoying it so we’ll continue to support her and encourage her.”