The British Open, the most prestigious and longest-established event in world squash, has received a major boost with the announcement that the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) will support the Dunlop British Open - Manchester 2007 to be held at the National Squash Centre in Sportcity from 18-24 September. 

Just weeks after England Squash concluded an extension to their highly successful agreement with the internationalSPORTgroup, which will guarantee the future of the 'Wimbledon of Squash' as one of the world's leading events until 2012, the event promoters have confirmed the support of the Northwest Regional Development Agency which will allow further investment into the event.

The Dunlop British Open - Manchester 2007 will feature the world's leading male and female professional players and will be run alongside the sport's most successful annual Masters Championships, comprising 13 age-group events from O35 to O70.

Peter Mearns, NWDA Director of Marketing & Communications, said: "The NWDA is delighted to support the Dunlop British Open, an important addition to the growing list of major events held in the region.  Over the last two years, events supported by the Agency have resulted in 1.2 million visitors contributing 40 million pounds to the regional economy - the benefits of which cannot be underestimated.  Through the Major Events Strategy, we will continue to help secure more of these types of events for England's Northwest."

Paul Walters, of internationalSPORTgroup, added:  "Our priority since first promoting the British Open in 2005, has been to establish a solid commercial framework which will enable the event to continue to flourish as the most prestigious squash championships in the world.

"Last year's championships attracted players and spectators from over thirty-five countries and we are confident that the support of the Northwest Regional Development Agency - in conjunction with Manchester City Council, England Squash and title sponsor Dunlop - will help us significantly in expanding and increasing the reach and appeal of the event," explained Walters.

England Squash Chief Executive Nick Rider added: "This is really good news for the British Open and for squash in England.  Being able to work in partnership with the public and private sectors in this way gives us new and exciting opportunities to reach new audiences and showcase our fantastic sport."

Councillor Mark Hackett, Manchester City Council's Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, said: "Manchester City Council is delighted to welcome the Dunlop British Open to Sportcity.  Once again the legacy of the Commonwealth Games enables Manchester to host prestigious international tournaments at its world class sporting venues, bringing benefits to the city and the region."