A TIDWORTH snooker player described pitting his wits in a match with professional Ronnie O'Sullivan as "surreal".

Richard Swaffield, a joint owner of Cavanfields Autocentre, took on the five-time champion at an exhibition evening at the The Crucible Sports and Social Club, Newbury.

The 43-year-old clawed back a deficit with a well-constructed 42 break but O’Sullivan laid a fiendish snooker behind the black on the final red.

Despite some ‘assistance’ from commentator John Virgo, Swaffield left a free ball for The Rocket to clear to the black.

“To be playing such a legend within a few days of him playing in the Masters was an amazing experience,” said Swaffield, who competes in the Cuestars South Wilts Snooker League and on the Cuestars South of England Seniors (40+) Tour.

“Even though I eventually lost the frame, I was pleased to get in and make a 40-plus break.

“It was made even more surreal with Jan Verhaas refereeing and John Virgo commentating.”

Among some of the others taking The Rocket on were Paul Jeans, Brett Carter and John Heredge.

Despite some good pots, the professional demonstrated his class by clearing up.