27th January 2007
Dan Hine has won the fourth consecutive event of six in the Exeter West of England Billiards & Snooker Foundation. Hine for the 4th event in a row went undefeated increasing his lead at the top of the Exeter rankings. The final was a repeat of the last event with the runner-up being Michael Rogers from Taunton. Rogers put up a good show in the first frame but once again ran out of steam against the older and more experience Hine. Hine is to try his hand in the Silver Waistcoat Tournament pitting his wits against the best under 21’s in the region.

The semi finals saw Hine win two close frames to beat Adam Gallen both players notching up 20 plus breaks. In the other semi final, relative newcomer to the tournament, Jay Bullen just lost to Rogers 2-1 in another close match. The round robin stage was topped by Hine followed by a three way tie for second place. After a count-back of points scored, Bullen secured second spot, Gallen third and Rogers fourth. Several small breaks were made on the day the best a 27 clearance by Gallen. As each tournament is played it is evident that the standard of play is gradually improving.

In addition to the main tournament a plate competition was run which was between Matt Baker and Will Blackmore which Blackmore won. The tournament was sponsored by GWRSA (South). Tournament Director Mel Berry, Tournament Director and club representative said "Another good performance all round, it will be interesting to see how Dan Hine measures up in the Silver Waistcoat. Whatever the result it will be good experience for him." Next round scheduled for the 24th February 2007.

Report by Steve Canniford