A KNUTSFORD resort has won the race to host a prestigious tennis event featuring a former Wimbledon champion.

The Boodles Classique, an exhibition tennis event and billed as the north west’s most elegant garden party, will be hosted for the very first time by The Mere Golf Resort and Spa.

The event takes place over two days on June 27 to 29 and culminates in the Boodles Ball on the Saturday evening.

It offers an opportunity to watch and mingle with some of the best known players in tennis, with Mark Philippoussis, Henri Leconte and former Wimbledon champion Richard Krajicek already committed to attend the event.

The two days feature a Moet and Chandon Champagne reception on arrival, a three course gourmet lunch after which the tennis commences. This is followed by an Asahi Afternoon Tea Party.

The Saturday evening event includes additional tennis followed by a gala dinner reception including a fashion show, and then a three course gourmet meal.

Mark Boler, co-owner at The Mere, said: “We’re really excited to be kicking off our 2013 summer season by hosting this event. It’s a significant opportunity to showcase our resort to a new audience of loyal followers and we are delighted that the Boodles Classique has chosen us as hosts of the event here at The Mere.

“All the staff are very excited and we can’t wait to put our Mere twist on this event to enhance the event experience.”

Nicholas Wainwright, chairman of Boodles, said: “It’s a testament to the Mere’s pedigree and track record in excellence that it has been chosen as new hosts of this major event in the north west.

“From event hospitality to customer service, The Mere is renowned in the region and with its newly launched facilities; we know there is a treat in store for customers coming to the Boodles Classique this year.”

Talk about this on our website at knutsfordguardian.co.uk.