Cue Zone Stars Shine In Bristol
A new snooker club for people with learning disabilities in Bristol is set to continue after a very successful six-week pilot funded by the Paul Hunter Foundation.
The Cue Zone Snooker Club has been supported by the Bristol County Sports Club on Colston Street, delivering a free two-hour session of coaching, trick shots and competitions to 12 young adults supported by the Brandon Trust, Bristol Community Learning Difficulties Team and other local disability support organisations.
World Snooker Coach Bob Hill set up the club following local interest. He said: “The group has become passionate about snooker over the last few weeks with each player improving and wanting to play more. It’s a great game that can engage people of any age or ability. We’ve gained superb backing from the Paul Hunter Foundation, providing funding and a polo shirt for each player. The Bristol County Sports Club has been an excellent choice of venue, giving fantastic support.”
Jethro, one of the players, said: “It’s really fabulous. I enjoy the rebound games, including ‘snooker tennis’ and I’m going to come back!” Fellow player Edward added: “It’s an amazing group. I really enjoy coming along and I like the 60-second challenge and trick shots.”
Steve Davies from Bristol Community Learning Difficulties Team, who supports two of the group’s participants, said: “The Cue Zone Snooker Club provides an excellent opportunity for people with learning disabilities to engage in a social experience and to gain skills. It also offers a reason to use other skills that they may not have used in a while, such as travelling independently.
“The club has provided a positive reason to spend time away from the house. There is a need for somewhere for adults with learning disabilities to go to socialise and engage in meaningful activities – the snooker club has offered this.”
Support Worker Jo added: “The whole group has formed a good relationship and grown in confidence with each other.”
The Cue Zone Snooker Club will restart on a fortnightly basis from Friday 2 May. To find out more contact Bob Hill on 07876 184 774 or email [email protected]