SOME of the world’s top squash players will be in Ilkley for the Nidd Vale Ilkley Sqaush Open which runs from Friday, April 17, to Sunday, April 19.

Heading the men’s draw is World number nine Peter Barker, with second seed Ali Walker having a world ranking of 16. Barker has played in the tournament before and has been runner up twice and he will be hoping to go one better. Daryl Selby ranked 26 in the world is third seed.

The women’s draw is just as impressive as the men’s with World number seven and defending champion Laura Lengthorn-Massaro the top seed, with Irish player Madeline Perry, world ranked nine seeded two.

The third seed is Dominique Lloyd Walter who has a world ranking of 22.

There are a number of players that are ranked inside the world 100 in both the men’s and ladie’s draws.

Ilkley Squash Coach and Event organiser, Robbie Burnett said: “This is a fantastic entry, with so many of the world’s top players. To have players of this calibre here in Ilkley is a great boost for squash in the area. It is a must for all squash fans and sports fans to come along and watch, better still it is free to all.”

Matches start on the Friday from mid-day and go throughout the day. Ladies matches start on the Friday night.

Saturday’s games start with the quarter-finals from 10.30am with the semi-finals due to start from 4pm, with the finals on the Sunday starting at 1pm for the ladies and 2pm for the men’s.

Entry is free all weekend, but you will need tickets for the final, where numbers are limited. Tickets can be picked up from the Ilkley Squash club from Wednesday, April 15.

For more information contact Robbie Burnett at Ilkley Squash Club on 01943 607182.