1) SIDNEY SMITH – When Sidney Smith compiled snooker’s first ever total clearance in public, 133, during an exhibition on December 10th, 1936 the Yorkshireman expected widespread publicity. However, Smith’s feat went almost unnoticed as it coincided with the abdication of King Edward VIII. Smith never forgave Mrs. Simpson.

2) ANTHONY BRIDGE – The Benson and Hedges Championship was an opportunity for snooker’s dreamers to aim for the stars. The winner received a wild card to the Masters at Wembley. Bridge, a middle aged businessman, travelled from Manchester to Malvern the day before his match, keen to enjoy the best possible preparation. He found accommodation close by the Willie Thorne Snooker Centre but next day all of his attempts to reach the venue were thwarted. Heavy flooding had caused the river Severn to burst its banks.

3) TED LOWE – The whispering commentator was brought out of retirement to broadcast the 1996 World Cup in Bangkok, Thailand. However Lowe, then a septuagenarian, was struck down by a stomach virus and back pains no sooner had he set foot in the ‘Land of Smiles’ and did not utter a word.

4) MICK PRICE – Price, on the receiving end of the fastest 147 break on record, from Ronnie O’Sullivan in the 1997 World Championship, suffered an unfortunate exit from the 1993 Grand Prix. Price was walking from his digs to the Hexagon Theatre, Reading when he was caught in a sharp shower. The rain seeped into his cue case, dampened his tip and, deprived of all control was whitewashed 5-0 by Steve James.

5) DARREN MORGAN – In 1996, Darren Morgan, one of the sport’s resident curmudgeons, beat Steve Davis 9-8 to win the Benson and Hedges Irish Masters at Goffs, County Kildare. The following year, Morgan almost defended the title, losing in the final, 9-8 on the black to Stephen Hendry. Twelve months later the Welshman greeted the news that he had not been invited back with incredulity.

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