Gunnell not past Sel-by date

Shropshire’s Adrian Gunnell will step up preparations for one of the biggest matches of his snooker career with a practice session against World Championship runner-up Mark Selby tomorrow.Click here for all the Maplin UK Championships build-up

Gunnell meets Chinese star Ding Junhui in the first round of the Maplin UK Championship at Telford’s International Centre this weekend, with the match played over two sessions on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

And the Telford cueman is hoping practising alongside Selby - who meets Anthony Hamilton in his first round tie in Shropshire - will sharpen his form ahead of the showdown.

Meanwhile, Gunnell is seeking sponsorship from a Shropshire company for his first ever appearance in a ranking event in his home town.

“I’m allowed two six square inch logos on my waistcoat and it would be great to have a local firm backing me,” said the 35-year-old.

Anyone interested should contact Gunnell through the Shropshire Star on 01952- 241472.

World Snooker officials have revealed they are happy with ticket sales for the week-long event at Telford.

After previously confirming the final is all but sold out, spokesman Ivan Hirchowitz said: “We have now sold at least 100 tickets for every single session of the tournament so it’s going well.”