THE SPORTING charity that has helped springboard aspiring young tennis players into the professional arena is set to hold a fundraising auction.

Southampton tennis ace and Wimbledon contender Chris Wilkinson and Lawn Tennis Association president Charles Trippe will be at the TennisFirst event that will see lots such as the chance to play on Wimbledon grass going under the hammer.

More than 200 guests are expected to turn up for the auction night at the Hampshire Tennis Health Club tonight - an event which is part of the charity's fundraising programme to raise cash to help young UK players fulfil their potential.

The charity, which has benefited from Tim Henman's patronage, has already played a part in boosting the careers of one of Britain's top tennis-playing women, Anne Keothavong, as well as British Davis Cup player Alex Bogdanovich.

Now the charity is getting behind promising young local player, Josh Goodall, who rose from zero to 360 in the ATP entry rankings in 2004.

Tickets are still available for the event, which will see the major lots going under the hammer in traditional auction style with professional auctioneer, Hume Jones of FPD Savills.

They include the chance to play at Wimbledon with Andrew Castle or Sam Smith, an opportunity for three juniors to play on the grass at Wimbledon and tickets to the Championships with lunch in the members' enclosure.

Other lots include dinner and hotel treats to a holiday in the Algarve.

Some of the 30 to 40 lots may be sold by way of a silent auction.

Guests will pay for a ticket to a canape and wine style cocktail party from 7pm to 9pm at the club in Botley Road, West End.

Tickets are £15 which includes a small donation to the charity. For more information and to book tickets, call Ken Weatherley on 01962 711491.