Snooker Community Honors John Virgo at Sheffield Cathedral Memorial The snooker world came together at Sheffield Cathedral today to remember John Virgo, the beloved former player and commentator who passed away in February at the age of 79. The memorial service brought together legends of the sport, current stars, and fans to celebrate Virgo’s lasting impact on snooker. Snooker Icons Gather to Pay Tribute Among those in attendance were six-time world champion Steve Davis, seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry, Jimmy White, John Parrott, Dennis Taylor, and Ken Doherty. Virgo’s widow, Rosie Ries, was also present at the service. Current top players competing in this year’s World Championship, including John Higgins, Mark Williams, Shaun Murphy, and Neil Robertson, joined the gathering to honor their friend, and colleague. Steve Davis shared his memories of Virgo, describing him as “part of snooker’s furniture and history.” Speaking to the Press Association, Davis said: “We’re going to miss him dearly. A great commentator but a good friend to us all, he made you feel very special. We all thought we were friends with John because he had a great heart and he was funny, sometimes cantankerous but we loved him for that. He was part of snooker’s furniture, he was part of snooker’s history and a wonderful commentator. He got the best out of every match.” Virgo’s Legacy in Snooker John Virgo reached the World Snooker Championship semi-finals at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre in 1979 and enjoyed an 18-year professional career before transitioning to broadcasting in 1994. He became widely recognized for his work as a BBC commentator and as co-host of the popular show Big Break alongside comedian Jim Davidson from 1991 to 2002. His iconic catchphrase “where’s the cue ball going?” became synonymous with his broadcasts, reflecting his genuine passion for the sport that resonated with viewers. Outside the cathedral, snooker fan Jim Fitzpatrick wore a shirt featuring a snooker table design and Virgo’s name, remembering him as “funny” and someone who “didn’t take sport too seriously.” Memorial Service Details The service at Sheffield Cathedral began at 1pm after guests arrived from around 12.30pm. Following the ceremony, a reception was held at Sheffield Town Hall from 2.30pm until 5pm, featuring drinks and canapes for attendees. The event was organized by Ken Doherty, the 1997 World Champion, and snooker’s Master of Ceremonies Rob Walker, who emphasized the importance of properly saying goodbye to a figure who contributed over half a century to snooker. As attendees departed, they were led out by the bishop following a song, marking a heartfelt farewell to one of snooker’s most cherished voices. The memorial served as a testament to John Virgo’s enduring legacy in the sport he loved and did so much to popularize.
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