World Snooker Director of Operations Tony Murphy professed himself delighted after a series of interactive discussions with officials from the EBSA.

 

"I'm pleased that we have joined together for inclusive discussions", said Murphy.

 

"It is World Snooker's declared aim to develop the sport internationally and dialogue and mutual cooperation are essential to this process."

 

World Snooker met with representatives from seven European countries, currently gathered at Pontin's for the Home International Series.

 

European Billiards & Snooker Association Chairman, Jim Leacy, was equally upbeat after the pro-active discussions, saying "It is vital that World Snooker, EBSA and other international bodies communicate and cooperate so that we can work together to promote the sport."

 

A direct channel of communication has now been opened between WSA and EBSA, through EBSA Secretary Maxime Cassis, who will act as the contact point for all European countries.

 

The EBSA already boasts 31 member countries, all of whom are enjoying an upsurge in interest and participation, due in part to the World Snooker contract with Eurosport.

 

Eurosport are beaming coverage of Main Tour Ranking events into more than 50 European countries, reaching into 95 million homes.

 

EBSA Vice Chairman, Palmi Einarsson, gave the example of how snooker is now more widely recognised in Russia. New clubs have opened recently and Russia will be the host country for the 2005 European Under 19 Championship.

 

Poland were able to illustrate an immediate benefit of Eurosport broadcasts. During the Embassy World Championship the Polish commentator explained to viewers that they could be like Paul Collier, referee of the final, and invited potential referees to visit a Warsaw Snooker Club to take up the white gloves. On the day more than thirty new recruits signed up to train with the Polish Association.

 

The EBSA currently stage the European Championships for Men, Women and Over 40s. The 2005 event will be staged in Poland. The Under 19 Championship will be in Ekaterinburg, Russia and the European Team Championship, launched in 2004, embracing Men's, Women's and Seniors' Team events, will be staged by Malta, who won the inaugural event in Latvia.