Hospice in frame for snooker cash

The North Anston-based hospice was chosen by World Snooker as its official charity to support during the 2012/13 season.

Various fundraising events are planned to raise money - and players fines will also go to Bluebell Wood.

World Snooker chairman Barry Hearn and Jason Ferguson, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, visited the hospice to announce the partnership.

Last season, World Snooker supported Haven House Children’s Hospice in Essex and raised more than the target sum of £120,000. It is hoped that a similar sum can be raised for Bluebell Wood.

Mr Hearn said: “We are delighted to be able to support such an amazing charity. It’s only when you visit Bluebell Wood that you realise the extent of the work they do for children and their families.”

“It costs £3 million a year to provide that service and they receive no statutory government funding.”

“We are determined to do everything we can to help them and we have several initiatives lined up which will raise money. Once again, player fines will be donated to the charity.”

“Sheffield is the Snooker City so it is fitting that we are working with a charity in the region.”

Mr Ferguson said: “It’s important to realise how lucky we are to be healthy, with healthy children, and to be generous to those who are not as fortunate.”

“Bluebell Wood is a fantastic cause and we’re urging everyone to get involved and make a donation.”

Bluebell Wood’s chief executive Sarah Champion said the offer of support from World Snooker came completely out of the blue.

She added: “We are so proud that World Snooker have decided to support Bluebell Wood. It is an incredible honour to be chosen.”

“It is only through the support of organisations such as World Snooker that we can continue giving the vital support to children in our region who will not reach adulthood.”