The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) will collaborate with Beach Tennis UK, who have staged coaching workshops and tournaments in Brighton, to host the tournament, which will be the sixth of its kind.

"Tennis is a fun, social sport, and beach tennis is a great example of this." said LTA President Peter Bretherton.

"We're delighted that Great Britain is hosting the European Championships and we will use this opportunity to showcase our sport to a whole new audience."

International Tennis Federation (ITF) President Francesco Ricci Bitti was also optimistic at the prospect of a new country hosting the event, saying: "These Championships will provide an excellent opportunity to bring this relatively new brand of tennis into the public domain, and inspire more people to take up the sport both in Britain and throughout Europe.

Last year's men's champions Paolo Tazzari and Marco Garavini will be looking to hold onto their crown in Brighton this August

"The European Beach Tennis Championships are a major highlight for players and we have no doubt that they will be eagerly awaiting the chance to showcase their talents on British sand."

San Marino held last year's event in which Italy reigned on all fronts, with Paolo Tazzari and Marco Garavini winning the men's doubles and Simona Bonadonna and Eva D'Elia winning the women's doubles.

Beach tennis is played on a similar-sized court to beach volleyball, and players play with paddle-bats and a slightly de-pressurised tennis ball.

Regular tennis scoring is used, though there is no-advantage at deuce, no second service and no let.

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