A POOL whizz who battled through broken ribs to play during the Commonwealth Games is hoping to pocket a trip to Australia.

Barry Allen, of the Arden Inn, Accrington, took part in an exhibition match during the games in Manchester, as fans fight to get pool introduced as a Commonwealth sport.

But the landlord's place was thrown into doubt when he 'fell over the barrels' at the pub and broke his ribs.

The 56-year-old struggled through and he played his part at the Commonwealth Village.

He said it was an experience of a lifetime and is now hoping to follow it up with a trip to Melbourne for the 18th Commonwealth Games.

Barry said: "We were asked to do exhibition matches one afternoon for the athletes and officials.

"It was fantastic. I remember at one time seeing Jonathan Edwards and Tessa Sanderson watching us and I showed a Canadian high jumper how to play pool -- she was lovely! But we had to let them win!"

Barry was chosen as he is a lifelong friend of Bury poolmaster Don Mills, who is keen to get pool introduced into the Games.