INSPIRATIONAL teenager Blake Munton says chalking up in Grimsby alongside hero Jimmy White will be an 'amazing experience'.
The 17-year-old, who has endured a series of health problems, will be one of eight players to challenge 'the Whirlwind' when he comes to town on Friday, May 17.
In a celebratory event at the Auditorium, which marks the 100th year of the Grimsby & District Snooker and Billiards League, Blake will be gunning for the potter.
And while the Holton-le-Clay youngster has encountered White on the baize before, he believes victory is not beyond his reach.
Blake, whose highest break is 75, said: "I can't wait – it was amazing to find out the news and I've been practicing every day since.
"Jimmy is my favourite player. I have played against him before and think I can beat him, but either way it will be a fantastic day.
"I will be practicing from Monday to Friday. I am more of a safety player, and I will have to be against Jimmy – he is such a good potter."
Blake, who has lived with a brain tumour for the past eight years, is now enjoying better health having left hospital in August following a five-and-a-half month stay.
During that time, the youngster contracted meningitis and baffled doctors with an inflection never before recorded in medical history.
Indeed, doctors at Sheffield Children's Hospital discovered that Blake had aspergillis of the brain – something he is now taking ongoing medication for.
But for one night at least, the talented snooker star will be able to put his conditions aside as he prepares to face his idol on home turf.
His father Brian said: "If Blake can knock in a couple of 20 breaks against Jimmy that would be great – I'm certain they will both get a huge cheer on the night."
"We don't know how long the illness will take to go, or if it ever will – nobody else in the world the same illness.
"Blake was nominated by a quite a few people in the league. He is feeling great and people keep asking him about it.
"Snooker is really good for Blake – it keeps him thinking and motivated. He knows quite a lot of the stars on a personal level.
"I'm not sure if he can beat Jimmy, but they will have a good laugh. Blake will be nervous, but it will be great for him to come on stage with the Grimsby crowd."
Aside from practicing at home, Blake is a regular at Ray Edmonds' Snooker Centre – playing in the singles, doubles and billiards leagues.
Alan Edmonds – who runs the Freeman Street club – added: "Blake is an inspiration. He has always got a smile on his face and absolutely loves snooker.
"When we all moan about things, we should think about Blake and the way he is. He plays every day and is over the moon."
Tickets for the Jimmy White exhibition are now on sale. To book your place at the special event, contact Grimsby Auditorium on (0844) 871 3016. Prices start at £12.
