The World Seniors Snooker (WSS) Championships is underway in Sheffield, giving local people an opportunity to see legends of the game play at the Crucible Theatre.
WSS Chairman Jason Francis said: “Although Sheffield’s hosted the world professional championship for 47 years, not a lot of people in Sheffield necessarily get the chance to attend because it’s such a global event – it sells out really quickly. The good thing about the seniors is you see a lot of local people here.”
The field is made up partly of invited players like Jimmy “Whirlwind” White. The remaining slots can be filled by amateur players over 45 from anywhere in the world.
World Seniors Snooker will also run a ‘Seniors of Sheffield Day’ on Friday 10 May, welcoming 600 people from Sheffield’s ageing population to see the tournament and socialise.
Age UK, partners of the day, say that 500,000 older people go at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone. Mr Francis said the event helps let people know they are not alone.
The tournament, running from 8-12 May, is live on Channel 5. Tickets are on sale through the Crucible on 0114 2496000 or online at www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk.