Top-class snooker to return to Derby after more than 30 years

Officials at the new Becketwell Arena in Derby have announced that a major snooker tournament featuring some of the sports greatest legends is coming to the City.

World Seniors Snooker has confirmed The Seniors British Open will take place at the Colyear Street venue from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th December.

It will see snooker return to Derby for the first time since 1993, when the former Assembly Rooms last hosted the British Open.

Eight players will compete for the seniors snooker title, with Jimmy White, Ken Doherty, Joe Perry, Dominic Dale, World Champion Alfie Burden and Matthew Stevens so far confirmed.

Jimmy White said: “I was lucky enough to win the British Open in Derby in 1987 and 1992, so to get a chance to go back and add the Seniors British Open is a great opportunity.

“I know how much people in Derby love their snooker so I hope they will come out and pack the place out for all the players.”

Marcus Sheehan, general manager at the recently opened Becketwell Arena, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to bring snooker back to Derby.

“There’s a huge sporting appetite in the city, and years of great tournaments at the Assembly Rooms. We can’t wait …”