IN his short life of 22 years, Darren Heggie has achieved more than most.

A 'veteran' of the local pool and snooker circuits, the ex-Witton Park pupil is already the manager of Rileys American Pool and Snooker Hall - one of the youngest in the country.

Since leaving school at 16, Darren quickly developed a reputation for being one of the country's best pool players, and graced the small screen as a result!

"Back in '99 I competed in the nineball World Masters which was televised live on Sky Sports," he explains. "I got through to the last 16 which I was pretty pleased with.

"In 2000, I got through to the last 96 in the nineball World Championships in Cardiff, and last year I reached the final of the Observer Cup in snooker.

"I definitely prefer pool though as it's much quicker and more exciting to watch."

Having already worked in most of Blackburn's snooker halls, Darren began his time at Rileys behind the bar soon after it opened, graduating to manager 10 months ago.

"Things have been going well, there are 180 Rileys snooker halls nationwide, and I was nominated for a top-manager award in only my first four months in charge!" he says.

"This job now takes preference over everything else - even my pool playing - with us open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, I simply don't have the time."

And what's it like for a Rovers fan whose place of work happens to be painted claret and blue?

"Yes it's a curious choice, but all Rileys have the same colour scheme - you'd have thought they could make a few concessions for Blackburn though!"

Turning in for work even on his days off, Darren, who lives in the Infirmary area of Blackburn, knows what it takes to run a successful snooker hall.

"We've got six dedicated staff who all do their bit to ensure playing equipment is in tip-top condition. Cues and tables are checked every morning, and are replaced or repaired immediately if needed.

"We also try to cater for all - in the pool area which proves most popular with the youngsters we've got large screens and music, leaving the snooker area free for the older and more serious players."

Rather than wanting to win more silverware in pool tournaments, Darren's ultimate ambition is a little more down-to-earth.

"My main aim is to open up a snooker and pool hall from scratch, and to be involved right from day one," he admits. "I'd see it as a real challenge, and I'm sure I'll get the chance sometime in the future."