William (16), of Weston, has been given £500 as he looks to earn a place on International Tennis Federation Tour by the end of the year.

He said: "The funding I have received will help tremendously and allow me to compete on the British Tour.

"I am very grateful to the fund for selecting me. It's a great honour."

With regular trips to events in places as far as Leeds, Nottingham and Sheffield, William will use the grant largely to cover travel costs.

His dad Mark said: "We have had to finance most of William's career, so this is a welcome boost for us all.

"If he is to make it professionally he must take part in all these tournaments."

William (pictured) began playing when he was just seven and started competing seriously at the age of 11.

He added: "My aim is to play tennis at the highest level – and get paid for doing something I love.

"I have already played at Wimbledon and it would be a dream to return as a top player."

The young right-hander possesses a trademark one-handed backhand that his father likens to that of world number one Roger Federer – but William is not getting carried away.

He said: "Obviously every young player wants to be like Federer. He is the best in the world."

"But I have my own style and am not basing my game on anyone but myself."