Snooker ace takes on winners

Shropshire’s snooker stars of tomorrow were on cue for a masterclass by one of the sport’s most talented stars of today.Mark Selby, runner-up in this year’s 888.com World Snooker Championship, took time out from his hectic schedule to offer tips to five promising players at the master-class yesterday at the Maplin Electronic store, Bridge Retail Park, Telford.

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The amateur prodigies were among the winners of a Shropshire Star competition that offered readers the chance to play one of the stars of the Maplin UK championship tournament which is being staged at Telford International Centre next month.

County pool player Steve Camp, of Hollinswood, Telford, had played Selby twice before - and lost both times. But yesterday he clawed a game back, scoring a 50-break and beating the top professional in one of his two matches.

“I can go back to the club and tell them I’ve beaten him,” said Mr Camp, 34.

Sam Hamilton, 16, of Dawley, Telford, said: “I was a bit nervous and that makes it that much harder but it’s been a great experience playing against Mark. It’s the first time I’ve played a professional.”

Which is something that can’t be said for 40-year-old Kevin Mitchell, also of Dawley who revealed he regularly took on the top players in the world - on his PlayStation.

Ryan Dudley, 12, of Admaston, Telford, has only been playing a few months and picked up some top tips from the pro. He added: “He said I should try to improve my play and my potting.”

Matthew Adams, 21, of Ditherington, Shrewsbury, was delighted to play his hero, adding: “It’s great to be beaten by Mark.”

Selby said: “There are a few good players here and some of them are very promising.”