Saturday morning saw an early start from Lincoln after picking up Lincoln's young hopefuls, Matt and Wayne. However, we hit the road at 8a.m. heading north to Middlesbrough—my first visit to a Junior All England Final—destination the Quoit and Rifle Club. It seemed an unusual name for a club holding the All England Junior Billiards Finals. The map provided by Albert Hanson was excellent and we arrived before 10.30a.m. with no diversions.
Entering the club first impressions were good with four tables in a self-contained room with ample seating space for many spectators.
The under sixteen's championship was already in progress; all the competitors correctly dressed in while shirts, dark trousers, bow ties and waistcoats an excellent dress code. All matches were refereed throughout by local qualified referees.
Albert Hanson, the tournament organizer, had things well under control with matches finishing and starting on time throughout the day.
Three or four local radio broadcasts kept interested locals well informed.Competitors and spectators alike were treated to an excellent buffet meal..
All the competitors received trophies on the day and will receive certificates, complete with photographs—a nice touch.
The eventual winners of both sections, Matthew Sutton, U16 and Robin Wilson, U19, were the class players on the day and are to be congratulated on their success.
All in all, an excellent day. Congratulations are due to all those who organised, assisted and participated.
Perhaps I am allowed a criticism. I would like to see all the competitors staying to the end for the Presentation to receive their Trophies personally.
A very good day and my thanks to Albert Hanson and all at Middlesbrough for making us so welcome.
Better luck next time to Lincoln entrants; but, as I explained on the way home, it is the taking part that matters.