As the AEGON International fights through the rain showers we catch up with two young officials who have not let the weather dampen their experience by the seaside...

Saturday 18th June

Nineteen year old Nathan Watt of Surrey and 24 year old Nathan Hudson of Cheshire have been part of the 65 strong crew of line umpires working at the joint WTA/ATP event.

This is an exciting year for both Nathans as they get stuck into the grass court session leading up to their first Wimbledon. 

Nathan Watt explains his morning movements: "We arrive on site about 10:15am and report to the chief to find out what team we're in. We're given a schedule for the day, where we see what court we start on and what time to report to it."

When asked how the weather has affected his day Hudson replied: "The weather is difficult to predict down here. One moment it's sunny and the next is hammering it down. To be honest I don't mind the odd rain delay as I have time then to chat with the others and socialise."

The Nathans have become close friends, since completing their training together at the end of 2009 and are thoroughly enjoying their week at the seaside town.  Like all new line umpires, the pair have been working at the early stages of ITF events over the last year, to gain more experience, before being assigned to a major tour event.

Watt describes his week as: "Brilliant. Even if the weather's been a bit dodgy, I love the sea so being in Eastbourne has been great. This is also the first time I've been on court with top players which I'll never forget. I'll definitely be applying again next year!"

Being part of such a big tournament has given Watt and Hudson the experience and confidence required to work at a Grand Slam. As the boys wave goodbye to the idyllic buildings and scattered showers of Eastbourne, we wish them luck on their forth coming journey to SW19!