A FIVE-year-old snooker prodigy tipped as a future world champion is to take on legends of the game in a showcase match.

Beau Thirsk may have picked up a cue for the first time only last year but he is already potting balls at will, wowing seasoned professionals and club players alike.

Next month, the youngster will team up with seven-time world champion Steve Davis for a challenge match against the Jimmy ‘The Whirlwind’ White and a lucky member of the audience at Spennymoor leisure centre, in County Durham.

The Snooker Legends match, on Thursday, January 23, will hold no fear for the little left-hander, as he has already taken on Davis and world number five Stephen Maguire.

He even sports a silver player’s waistcoat signed by Davis following their encounter earlier this year, after which the Romford Slim raised the prospect of Beau claiming his old world title in years to come.

Beau, of Belmont, Durham City, and a pupil at St Joseph’s RCVA Primary School, in Gilesgate, said he enjoyed potting balls, using his specially made cue – which is inscribed with his name.

His father, Jonny Thirsk, said: “He started playing pool last year.

“I realised he had quite a talent. I could see he had a good queuing action.”

Mr Thirsk, who helps run North East Snooker Promotions, now takes his son to practise twice a week.

But he said: “I don’t want to think too far ahead.

“When he gets older it’ll be up to him whether he wants to pursue it. To become a professional takes a lot of dedication and commitment. I just want him to enjoy it.

“But every day I pick him up from school he asks if we can go play snooker.”

The youngster often practises at Toddy's snooker hall, in Chester-le-Street.

The Snooker Legends match will also feature commentator and former player John Virgo and professional referee Michaela Tabb and starts at 7pm.

Tickets, priced £12 to £60, can be booked by calling 03000-261-161.

- Get your copy of The Northern Echo on Friday, January 10, for the chance to win VIP tickets to the match.