The addition of Live Streaming of finals matches proved popular at the BAPTO tournament weekend in Blackpool.
Not every player left the Norbreck Castle with a trophy or winnings but the verdict from those attending was a big thumbs up for a great weekend of pool, in a great new venue that afforded plenty of room to play and socialise as well as the obvious attractions of a night out in the iconic seaside town.
Teams from around the country competed for the prestigious BAPTO Team Trophy and The Butchers Arms from Barnsley finally triumphed over their near neighbours Stinkers ‘A’ from Sheffield 6 frames to 3. Steve Webster from the Butchers has been playing, and winning, at BAPTO for more than 10 years and gave an emotional, impromptu speech after accepting the trophy. Congratulating the event management and all those that delivered such a successful weekend of pool. The BAPTO organising committee, Rob Pearce of UKPubPool, the referees and table care team, Norbreck staff and the table suppliers and sponsors SAM Leisure, Hainsworth and Aramith.
Other regions were represented in finals events. The Team Plate was won by Four Cockerels and a Hen from Derby who saw off Norfolk and Chance. Craig Lakin of Yorkshire defended his Mens Singles title against Rob Southey from Hertfordshire while Shona Lucas of Wisbech defeated Julie Betteridge from Derby to lift the Ladies Trophy. Ian Morris and Amanda Watson won the Mixed Doubles event, runners up were Dave Graham and Hanna Beaven.