Andrew Bray and Ashley Brooks are odd on favourites to claim a rare male and female Grand Slam double at the last big tournament of the 2006 tennis season which begins in Southampton today.

With main rival James Collieson still struggling with tendonitis in his wrist, Island number one Bray looks almost certain to claim his fourth major title of the year at the Fairmont Southampton Grand Prix, while the talented Brooks, who has found life just as straightforward as the all-conquering accountant from north London, should continue to make light of any challenge that confronts her.

For Bray at least, a lack of motivation and a demanding, high-pressure job appear to be the only obstacles currently in the Englishman?s way, with his principle challengers at the Whaler Inn likely to be Michael Way and Jacob Trott ? men he has thrashed in the past.

Bray has faced Trott in two out of the three Grand Slam finals so far ? at the Island Construction and Argus Opens ? with the young Bermudian competing well in the former tournament but ultimately winning a total of only six games.

Bermuda?s top player beat another young local, David Thomas, 6-1, 6-0 in the final of the BLTA Open ? formerly known as the Heinken Open ? in early May.

Brooks, meanwhile, who has the number two seed Leonie Macloughlin, Veronica Dunkerley and Elizabeth Hartley to potentially contend with next week, battled hard to win the BLTA title in three sets despite a twisted knee against Tara Lambert, but has otherwise not been tested.

Play begins this morning at 9 a.m.