WATCH: Legends arrive at the Crucible for the World Senior Snooker Championships

The World Senior Snooker Championships (WSS) are underway in Sheffield, giving locals the chance to see legends of the game at the Crucible Theatre.

WSS chairman Jason Francis said: “Although Sheffield has hosted the professional world championship for 47 years, not many people in Sheffield necessarily get the chance to attend as it is such a global event – ​​they sell out very quickly. The good thing about seniors is you see a lot of locals here.”

The field is made up in part of guest players like Jimmy “Whirlwind” White. The remaining slots can be occupied by amateur players over the age of 45 from anywhere in the world.

World Seniors Snooker will also hold a ‘Sheffield Seniors Day’ on Friday 10 May, welcoming 600 people from Sheffield’s older population to watch the tournament and socialise.

Age UK, the day’s partners, say 500,000 older people go at least five or six days a week without seeing or talking to anyone. Mr Francis said the event helps people know they are not alone.

The tour, which runs from May 8-12, is live on Channel 5. Tickets are on sale through the Crucible on 0114 2496000 or online at www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk.