An announcement by the LTA last year suggested that this year's tournament might be the last.

But this week the LTA confirmed that the ladies international is to stay - and that it will be joined by a top pre-Wimbledon men's tournament.

The news is a major reprieve for the town's tourism agenda. Tennis week has been established for many years as Eastbourne's most prestigious attraction, drawing star names and thousands of visitors.

The International Women's Open, held in the town since 1975, will be joined by men's championships, formerly the Nottingham Open, from 2009.

With the Devonshire Park tournament estimated to be worth £10m to the town, the news was welcomed by politicians and business people.

The merger of the two grass court events was announced by the Lawn Tennis Association at a press conference on Wednesday.

WATCH: A video interview with Roger Draper

Eastbourne tennis fans could see major male stars such as Andy Murray playing in the town from next summer.

Roger Draper, chief executive of the LTA, said, "The new, co-ordinated calendar will help raise the profile of the sport nationally and enhance the experience for fans, players and spectators. We are confident that the changes will help to re-energise the calendar and open up the sport to a new audience as well as offering a better experience for existing fans."

The leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, Councillor David Tutt, welcomed the merger.

"This is really excellent news for Eastbourne and will confirm the town's status as a top tennis venue, with a key British tennis event held here on the south coast.

"Taking place the week before Wimbledon, the tournament will attract huge media interest and world class players.

"This is a great boost to the town and its tourist economy and I am proud that Eastbourne has been chosen to stage two such major tennis events."