Snooker enthusiasts at a tiny Stewartry venue scored a big break – when four-time world champion John Higgins walked through the door.
Members at Knockvennie Hall near Corsock had been expecting a visit from former Scottish snooker professional Marcus Campbell.
But when Marcus arrived with “The Wizard of Wishaw” they got the shock of their lives.
Hall committee chairman Jonathan Dale said: “It was quite a surprise to us. It was one of those surreal moments.
“Marcus got out of the car and the guys could not believe it when they saw who was in the passenger seat. The boys stayed for a couple of hours and played a few frames.
“We all had a shot with John – he did not get into his stride at first but was soon knocking them in! It was a very relaxed affair.”
The club has only been going for around 12 months and boasts a membership of around 10.
The hall, a refurbished wartime Nissen hut which arrived from Stranraer around 1946, was damaged by flooding at New Year in 2016.
The then committee carried out repairs but low usage threatened its future – until snooker arrived right on cue.
Jonathan said: “If it had not been for that, we would probably have closed it down.
“It was always a struggle creating a demand but the snooker has breathed a bit of life into the place, for sure.
“It is a great bonus for us but we have had to put quite a bit of our own money into it. We funded the two tables ourselves and put them in the hall and put in new lighting.”
Jonathan added: “We want to stress that ours is not a private club and that the hall is available to the wider community. We are keen to encourage people to come along to try a few frames and join. We want to make folk aware that we are here.”
Anyone with an interest can contact Gavin Aitkenhead on 01556 650242.
