Snooker mourns Ray Reardon after his death at the age of 91

Snooker has lost one of its greats following the death of six-time world champion Ray Reardon at the age of 91.

The popular Welshman, nicknamed “Dracula” because of his distinctive widow’s peak hairstyle, died on Friday night after a battle with cancer, his wife Carol has confirmed.

A former coal miner and police officer, Reardon was at the forefront of the game’s rise to popularity as a televised sport during the 1970s and is credited with influencing the next generation of superstars.

Compatriot and three-time world champion Mark Williams told the World Snooker Tour’s official website: “Ray is one of the best sports people ever from Wales and the best snooker player. He’s one of the reasons why a lot of us started playing.

“He put snooker on the map, alongside Alex Higgins, Jimmy White and Steve Davis. Anyone playing now owes them a lot because they brought popularity to the game. He is a real inspiration.”

White paid his own tribute in a post on X which read: “Gutted to hear my very good friend Ray Reardon has passed away. A total class act and very kind to me when I was making my way in the game. A giant of the game. Rest in Peace, mate.”