Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
07
Mar 2024
Pateley man, 89, plays final billiards match after 73 years
An 89-year-old local billiards legend played his last ever league match last night.
Peter Chadwick, from Pateley Bridge, has played billiards for over 70 years. He started in 1951 aged 16 when a local player took him under his wing.
A few years later Mr Chadwick began competing in leagues and joined the Pateley Bridge Social club, where he is still a member.
Last night marked a celebration of Mr Chadwick's dedication to the sport in the final match of Markington and District Rural Billiards League’s season at Kirkby Malzeard.
Peter Chadwick played Malcolm Tattersall, 85, in a close match. Mr Tattersall won by three points, 125-122 but Pateley Bridge Social club won the match 3-2.
Peter Chadwick (left) and Malcolm Tattersall
Mr Chadwick said:
His son, Colin Chadwick, said:
Billiards, in which three balls are struck with cues into pockets around the edge of the table, has been overshadowed by snooker and pool in recent years.
Mr Chadwick said the sport was more popular when Mr Chadwick was young, which he added was just a sign of the times.
Mr Chadwick is also an ex-Yorkshire and Harrogate professional cricketer who has coached many young players at the billiards club over the years.
A spokesman for the league said:
Pateley Bridge Social club
0