Watch top snooker stars Jimmy White and Ronnie O'Sullivan in action - or join in the fun yourself. It is all possible with the Echo's Snooker Classic '99 event

Snooker fans can pot themselves a date at one of the greatest-ever nights the sport has staged in south-east Essex.

For This Is Essex partner Echo Newspapers is bringing together two of the biggest names in the game - Jimmy "Whirlwind" White and "Rocket" Ronnie O'Sullivan - for a special challenge match at the Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre in Eastern Avenue, Southend, on Friday, May 14.

The big night offers something for all lovers of the sport.

If you are an armchair TV fan of the game you can sit back and enjoy live the skills and thrills supplied by two of the most entertaining pros in the game today.

Also, there will be the added bonus of John Virgo, joint star of Jim Davidson's Big Break TV show, giving a demonstration of his famous trick shots.

If you are a player of the game there is also plenty of chance of involvement on the evening.

For, in conjunction with the big O'Sullivan v White challenge, we are running a major senior and junior (under-18) competition.

The winner of each category will qualify to play a frame against Virgo on the big night as well as winning a specially-autographed snooker cue.

They will also get two VIP tickets allowing them to join the stars at a champagne buffet on the night.

Entry for the snooker competitions themselves is on a first come, first served basis.

Qualifying rounds are being held at three south-east Essex venues. When each qualifier's winner is known they will meet in a grand final.

The junior event comes to a climax on Sunday, May 2, at the Wickford Snooker Club and the senior a week later, May 9, at the Cue and Rest in Shoebury.

These two venues are being used for the qualifying competition along with Rayleigh Lanes Snooker Club.

Tickets for the Jimmy White v Ronnie O'Sullivan date at Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre on May 14 can be obtained by ringing the special snooker hotline on 01268 270027 to order your seats today.

They are on offer at £16.50 and £14.50 each and there will be a £1 booking fee on each transaction.

Please allow 28 days for the delivery of tickets.

Jimmy White - will be aiming to keep the Rocket in his pocket on May 14

(Right) Ronnie O'Sullivan - young gun will be taking on the Whirlwind

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