Aaron’s on top of the world

PROUD . . . new world champion Aaron Davies.

OLDHAM potting sensation Aaron Davies is the new world junior pool champion.

Oldham College student Aaron, who celebrated his 18th birthday the day his dream win in Blackpool, won the ultimate eight-ball prize after seeing off fellow England youth international Nathan Ellis.

Davies was in superb form at the Imperial Hotel throughout the group stages, producing a succession of stunning total clearances. He cleared from the break more than 20 times during the event.

The final against Bedfordshire ace Ellis was initially a nip-and-tuck affair, but some clinical potting helped Davies to an eight to four success.

Davies's beaming dad Martin said: "What a phenomenal week it was in Blackpool. We're all so proud of Aaron. This is the title he's been after for years, the one he's always dreamed of winning.

"It seems unbelievable that he is the champion of the world, but he thoroughly deserved to win the title. In the latter stages he was just awesome. I don't think I've ever seen him play as well. We had a super celebration on his 18th birthday night!”

Davies won't be able to defend his title next year as he now moves up to the seniors, but next on his packed agenda is trying to win a place on the England under-23 team.

His 13-year-old brother Ryan also continues to make waves in snooker. The Newman College pupil has won a place on the prestigious junior premier tour, where he will be the youngest player by at least two years.

Once the six-event tour gets under way in October, he will be pitting his wits against some of the top 40 under-21 players in the UK.