Britain's Heather Watson to compete in June's Aegon Classic WTA event

Heather Watson: Pleased to be playing in Birmingham

British No 1 Heather Watson will be the first seeded home player to compete at the Aegon Classic for more than 20 years after agreeing to play in this summer's event.

Watson's attendance at the Birmingham-based event is a major boost for organisers, who have previously seen this likes of Maria Sharapova and Li Na compete for the grasscourt title.

On playing at the Wimbledon warm-up event, world No39 Watson said: "I'm really excited to be coming back to the Aegon Classic this year, it's a really friendly tournament.

"I always love playing in the UK, especially on the grass and in front of the British fans. They are so enthusiastic about tennis and I feel so supported when I play at home.

"My ranking has improved a lot since last year and I'll be looking to do better than I did in 2012 where I reached the third round. It would be a dream for me to win a title on home soil."

The WTA AEGON Classic will take place at the Edgbaston Priory Club, Birmingham from June 9-16.