Island pool player Matt Champ is preparing to face the world’s best.

Champ has become only the second player from Sheppey, after former world champion Carl Morris, to qualify to play in the World Pool Championship.

The championship gets under way at the Imperial Hotel, Blackpool, on Sunday until June 29.

Champ secured his place in the finals after coming through a 400-strong field in the qualifiers, to claim one of the eight places up for grabs.

He said: “I didn’t think it would get better than trialling for England a few times and the one time I represented England when I was a student, few people get to do that, but this is even more exclusive and is every amateur pool player’s dream.

“I’m just delighted to have done myself justice and got there in the first place.

“I’ve beaten County A players, internationals and professionals before. On my day I know I’m capable.”

Isle of Sheppey Pool League organiser Gary Buttfield said: “Regardless of how far Matt goes in the tournament, it is a massive achievement to get there in the first place.

"We all wish him the best of luck.”