CATFORD’S Broadway Theatre went snooker loopy on Tuesday evening as some of the sport's most legendary figures rolled into town.

The Legends of Snooker 2011 Tour features a who's who of the green baize, hosted by television pundit and former Big Break presenter John Virgo.

He was joined by London's own 'Whirlwind' Jimmy White, as well as three past World snooker champions in Cliff Thorburn (1980), Dennis Taylor (1985) and John Parrott (1991).

JV introduced a tribute video to the late, great Alex 'Hurricane' Higgins, who was part of last year's inaugural tour before his death in July.

Virgo then played some of his trademark trick shots with the help of audience members, it was time for veterans to lock horns.

The foursome paired off in two-frame semi-finals, with a re-spotted black deciding a winner in the event of a 1-1 tie.

As it transpired, both semis were settled by the black with Taylor beating Thorburn and Parrott defeating crowd favourite White.

Before the part-time television experts battled in their one-frame final, White and Thorburn paired up with a raffle winner and pre-show competition winner for a frame of doubles.

While Thorburn and his partner Lawrence impressed many while at the table, this match was all about the Whirlwind and his young accomplice Larry.

The kid elicited loud cheers every time he potted, with occasional assistance along the way from referee Michaela Tabb.

After Parrott defeated Taylor to claim victory in the legends' mini-tournament, the stars appeared in the lobby for photos and to sign purchased memorabilia.

With the sport making a concerted effort to raise its appeal in the mainstream, spearheaded by Matchroom mogul Barry Hearn, Legends of Snooker is a step in the right direction.

Although there were stark contrasts between this evening's festivities and the 30 plus frame contests in the latter stages of the World Championships, the animated nature of the players and Virgo's hilarious running commentaries will have impressed hardcore fans and casuals alike.

This is now the second year of what is fast becoming a very successful transition to the stage and one which at this rate will continue to grow in viability and popularity.

The tour will be back in south London on June 22 when it visits Fairfield Halls in Croydon.

For ticket information, call 020 8688 9291.

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