Q-BALL Snooker Club manager Brian Salmon shocked himself when he hooked two former world champions on his way to winning an eight-man tournament at the Basildon venue.

More than 50 devotees of the game turned out to watch the inaugural eight-ball pool Masters.

The line-up also featured four England international pool players, a top performer from the Basildon League and ex-snooker professional Salmon.

Before the main event a special presentation was made to one of the former world champs, Steve Sanders, in recognition of his achievements spanning three decades.

Sanders, based in Barking, won the world title in 2002 and was entered into the Essex Academy hall of fame.

He was presented with the award by Jimmy Carney, from Turtle Promotions, who organised the Q-Ball event.

Highlights from the first round matches included a last-frame decider between Sanders and Ilford’s Carney, which the ex-world champ won 6-5.

Local boy Spencer Cummings did not get the rub of the green in his match with Sean Hayden, losing 6-1.

Salmon caused the major upset when he beat ever-consistent 2003 world champ Rob Hill, based in Basildon, 6-4.

In the semi-finals, Sanders was up against junior international Kieron Hawkins who came close to a big upset before falling short at the final hurdle in losing 6-5.

Salmon reached the final with a 6-5 win over the talented Hayden after looking down and out when trailing 5-4.

Back-to-back eight ball clearances from Salmon saw him home.

The final was cut to a nine frame affair due to the tournament running late and the enthusiastic Q-Ball crowd created a great atmosphere.

And it was Salmon who scored another impressive victory to become champion and take the £200 cash prize with a 5-3 success.

Said Salmon: “I’m really surprised to have won as I haven’t really played a lot of pool. To beat two former world champions at their own sport is amazing.

“I guess my experience in playing snooker for so many years helped me a great deal.

“This tournament will become a regular yearly fixture here at the Q-Ball, alongside many other events.

“Pool is very much a growing sport in this area so the game is in good shape.”

Q-Ball run weekly tournaments at their club, based in Southernhay, that are open to all. FULL RESULTS First round: Steve Sanders 6 Jimmy Carney 5, Kieron Hawkins 6 Mickey Turner 3, Brian Salmon 6 Rob Hill 4, Sean Hayden 6 Spencer Cummings 1. Semi-finals: Brian Salmon 6 Sean Hayden 5, Steve Sanders 6 Kieron Hawkins 5. Final: Brian Salmon 5 Steve Sanders 3.