SNOOKER fans get the chance to see a modern-day genius in action this weekend when Ronnie O’Sullivan rockets into Barrow.

The five-times World Champion will show off his skills on the green baize at Hawcoat Park on Friday, taking on talented South Cumbrian players over eight frames.

There are still a limited number of tickets available for what promises to be an unmissable night for snooker aficionados.

The Rocket has been brought to town by promoter Glenn Higgins, who is working with Hawcoat Park to promote the facility beyond its usage by the football, rugby, bowls and other sporting teams it is home to.

Higgins has previously brought darts world champions Phil Taylor and Dennis Priestley to the area, among others, and sees landing O’Sullivan as a huge boost both for Barrow and the Hawcoat Park club.

“It’s great for Hawcoat Park, as we set about putting the club on the map and getting more people through the door,” he said recently.

“We’ve signed the lease over from BAE Systems and now it is about serious fundraising and keeping the doors open – also making people aware that the doors are open to the public and not just the select few.

“Getting Ronnie is one of the ways to do that. He is the biggest name in snooker and I would say the greatest player of all time. It’s a big coup to get him.”

O’Sullivan – who will be supported on his Barrow trip by BBC commentator and former snooker professional John Virgo – will battle a number of local players at Hawcoat. As well as O’Sullivan playing those frames on the green baize, Virgo will host the evening, provide commentary and performing some of the trick shots he is famous for.

“John should provide a nice complement to Ronnie’s snooker by providing the laughs on the night,” Higgins added. For more information about ticket availaibity, contact Glenn Higgins on 07449 000141 or email flightfirstevents@live.co.uk