Peter Williamson

One of snooker’s most experienced refs, Peter Williamson first refereed in Merseyside in the late 1970s and donned the white gloves as a professional in 1991.

He has refereed no fewer than seven 147s, including two by John Higgins. Remarkably, on four of those occasions the player who made the maximum lost the match.

Williamson has also officiated six ranking event semi-finals as well as the final of the World Billiards Championship on five occasions.

His hobbies away from the table include supporting Liverpool FC, photography, visiting the theatre and watching live music including U2, Bon Jovi and Jules Holland.

Born: Broadgreen, Liverpool

Lives: Broadgreen, Liverpool

Highest break: 57 clearance

Qualified as a referee: In the late 1970s but qualified for the professional game in the early 1990s.

First Pro match: It was at Bolton, probably 1991, and Simon Westcott was one of the players involved.

Most memorable match: I’ve been lucky to officiate seven 147s. But I remember a match between John Higgins and Anthony Davies in the Welsh Open. John won 5-3 in about 90 minutes. There were about four centuries and a 90. I wore a new pair of dress shoes and ended up with four blisters!

Most embarrassing moment: Doing four frames at the UK Championship one year with my fly open!

If you weren’t a referee what would you do: I spent 23 years working at Liverpool Airport so I suppose I’d be doing something in aviation.

Which is the toughest rule to apply: It has to be the miss rule though it has become a lot easier now than when it was first introduced. Players and referees now know what is expected of them. The interpretations weren’t always as clear cut.

What do you carry in your pocket: Two ball markers, a pen and a £5 coin.

Where do you get your gloves: Surprise, surprise….Paul Collier.

Interests: Photography, dining out, going to rock concerts.