HAMPSHIRE teenager Jordan Winbourne has accepted the invitation to represent England at the IBSF World Under-21 Snooker Championship in China.

That means a 10,000 mile round trip for the 17-year-old from Hedge End and his dad, Chris, at an estimated cost of £3,500, writes TIM DUNKLEY.

At the age of nine, Jordan was making ‘long’ trips to places like Swindon for Cuestars tournaments.

Putting it all into perspective, Chris said: “When you first start off you think there’s a lot of travelling involved – but this is taking it to a whole new level.”

Chris’ company Formation Freight is funding part of the cost but he is keen to sign up another sponsor. He explained that, apart from the tournament entry fee, players receive no financial assistance. “I’ve booked the flights,” he said. “But certainly it would be a help if there was anyone out there offering some sponsorship. “That is the problem with snooker. There’s still not enough money going in at grass-roots level. “You go to represent your country in a world championship and the only thing that the governing body (English Association of Snooker & Billiards) pays is the $50 entry fee for the tournament. “There must be a hell of a lot of people that if they got this opportunity wouldn’t be able to take it up. “It’s a great opportunity but it does come at a cost.”

Marchwood star Shane Castle, 15, has declined his place and opted to travel to Holland for a European Tour leg that is on at the same time. Jordan qualified for the event, which runs from July 11-19 in Beijing, via the EASB Under-21 Series.

If you would like your company’s logo on Jordan’s waistcoat in China and can help cover his costs, e-mail timdunkleysnookercoach@gmail.com.

Snooker review in today's Daily Echo