Eastbourne MP pushes for government funding after tennis cancelled

The Nature Valley International had been due to take place from June 21-27.

But organisers yesterday (April 1) announced the major event, which brings in some £5-£6 million to the town’s economy, was cancelled over the coronavirus pandemic.

Eastbourne tennis tournament is cancelled

Caroline Ansell is calling for support to help the town’s hospitality industry following this news.

She said, “This is the biggest single event in Eastbourne every year and its cancellation is a huge blow to the everyone who is involved in making it the great success it has always been.

“We now have a potentially very serious situation here in the town with many business owners wondering how they can survive. The government has put in place support for many industries, including hospitality, but this to my mind is now a special case.

“I will be speaking to the Treasury in the coming days following this cancellation. Resources are undoubtedly tight but I will make a strong case to ministers.

“In the meantime, our hoteliers and the wider hospitality industry is in touch with me about the issues and challenges, and what could be reasonably and practically done to help right now.”