More than 10,000 tourists are expected to flock to Eastbourne during two world class tennis events this summer.

The Argus reported on Saturday that the resort's Devonshire Park venue had been chosen to host the Davis Cup for the first time since Greg Rusedski made his British debut 11 years ago.

From June 17 to 24, women's tennis stars will be appearing in Eastbourne for the annual Hastings Direct International Championships.

The two events are being hailed as a major boost to tourism and tickets are expected to sell out fast when they go on sale on May 23.

Councillor David Elkin, Eastbourne Borough Council spokesman for tourism, said: "We are delighted Eastbourne has been chosen to hold the Davis Cup here at Devonshire Park.

"The weekend of July 21 to 23 looks set to be a big win for Eastbourne.

"We are expecting about 3,500 spectators a day to Devonshire Park to support Team Great Britain in front of capacity crowds.

"There will be a fantastic buzz throughout the town and an extra summer boost for businesses.

"With plenty of television cameras and the world's media, all eyes will certainly be on Eastbourne and one of the most prestigious and historic tennis venues in the world.

"Spectators will be able to enjoy exciting tennis in modern sporting facilities.

"The idyllic Eastbourne setting means everybody attending, players and visitors, can be assured of a first-class stay."

The Lawn Tennis Association announced the Davis Cup news on Friday.

Eastbourne will be hosting the Great Britain versus Israel tie .

Jeremy Bates, GB Davis Cup Captain, said: "We are very excited about heading back to the grass in Eastbourne.

"The conditions are always perfect there and I'm sure the home crowd will provide us with fantastic support for this important tie."

The last time Devonshire Park hosted such an event was in 1995 when Britain defeated Monaco.

The last time Britain played Israel, we won 3-2.

The Euro-African Zone Group One tie at Devonshire Park will be the second consecutive tie in Britain this year after last month's meeting against Serbia and Montenegro in Renfrewshire, Scotland.

A win for Great Britain would mean it retains a place in group one but a loss would mean facing the Ukraine in September for group one survival.

The Hastings Direct International is a prestigious pre-Wimbledon event which is a chance to see some of the world's leading players. Last year's winner was former world number one Kim Clijsters.

For more information and to buy tickets for both events, visit www.visiteastbourne.com