SNOOKER fans will enjoy the UK Championships at Preston's Guild Hall for the last time next month.

The prestigious televised tournament is switching to Bournemouth to be nearer to the base of new sponsors Liverpool Victoria.

Now Guild Hall bosses are negotiating a deal to host the Grand Prix championships next October which are also broadcast by the BBC.

Guild Hall assistant manager Alan Baker said: "We are disappointed but can understand the sponsors's decision. They put a lot of money into the event and want the it nearer their home-town.

"The Grand Prix is not as big as the UK Championships but we want to keep snooker in Preston."

Roy Hurley of Liverpool Victoria said: "Preston has been a very good venue for the championships over the past 20 years and we thank the Guild Hall for their support. We wish them every success with the Grand Prix."

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