Wimbledon Centre Court up for auction

The Centre Court at Wimbledon is up for auction - for a one-off tennis match against Tim Henman.

For the first time in its history, The All England Lawn Tennis Club will allow a member of the public to play on their hallowed lawns.

Chief operating officer of men's tennis body the ATP Larry Scott said: "This is something that has never happened before and may never be repeated again.

"No members -- let alone anyone outside the club -- have been allowed to play on Centre Court before.

"It is because of Tim (Henman) that the club has allowed this. It is out of respect for Tim and for what he has done for British tennis and for youngsters in Britain."

The chance to play Henman on Centre Court will be auctioned at the second annual Tim Henman's Tee Party, a celebrity golf tournament and dinner on October 2 at Stoke Park Club in Buckinghamshire.

But unlike other items up for auction, including Elton John's stage coat, bids for the chance to follow in the footsteps of Wimbledon champions will be accepted from all around the world.

"There is already so much interest in this," Scott said.

The proceeds of the auction will go towards Henman's charity drive, Kids at Heart.

And the player is also digging into his own pockets, donating 500 pounds ($735) for every match he wins in 2001.

This year's event is being attended by celebrities, sportsmen and sportswomen from across the sporting sphere.

Actor Richard E. Grant, prima ballerina Darcey Bussell and rugby players Jeremy Guscott and Michael Lynagh will attend the Tee Party.

"The generous support of the AELTC, our partners, participating corporations and celebrities, and so many of my friends for the Kids at Heart fundraising event is overwhelming," Henman said.

"We hope we can make a difference by continuing to provide resources to worthwhile children's charities."