STUDENTS on Teesside have been served up some good advice on the business of tennis.

More than 40 A-level business students at Bede College in Billingham met Premier Tennis League director Mike Dixon to find out about opportunities in the industry.

The presentations were part of Learning and Skills Council Tees Valley's sponsorship of the league. Mr Dixon also visited St Mary's RC College, Middlesbrough, Stockton Riverside College, and Middlesbrough College. He explained that the league, which promotes tennis to young people across the country, will hold the finals of a national youth tennis competition at the David Lloyd Racquet Club in Stockton in March.

Mr Dixon said: "So many people are interested in sport, but sometimes are not aware of all the career opportunities the industry has to offer off the field. My presentation hopefully provides them with the inspiration they need to use the skills from their business qualifications in sporting disciplines such as competition administration, sponsorship and marketing."

Ged Coull, deputy principal at Bede College, said: "Mike's visit to the college was very well received by all of the students working towards business qualifications. The Learning and Skills Council Tees Valley's support of the Tennis League has made it possible to bring an interesting and alternative employment sector to the attention of our young people."