Shropshire professional Adrian Gunnell has hailed the return of big-time snooker to Shropshire later this year.

World Snooker officials have confirmed the Maplin UK Championship, second in prestige only to the World Championship, will be returning to Telford’s International Centre in December.

Bumper crowds last year, when the tournament was staged in Shropshire for the first time, left the venue in prime position to be selected again.

And Telford-based Gunnell is delighted star names, including the 2007 champion Ronnie O’Sullivan and runner-up Stephen Maguire, will be returning to to the county.

“It’s great news because, as far as the players were concerned, it was a quality venue,” said Gunnell, who will be hoping to qualify for Telford once again after suffering a first round defeat to Ding Junhui last year.

“I spoke to a lot of them last year when the competition was held here and they were all really happy with the venue.

“The crowds were excellent as well so hopefully the people of Shropshire will come out and support the tournament in similar numbers his year.

“It’s always a major tournament on the calender and especially so for when you are playing in front of your home crowd.

“Hopefully I can qualify again this year and have a good run in the competition.”

The event will begin on December 13, with the final due to take place eight days later.

News of ticket sales will be announced shortly.

By James Garrison