Chalk up some victories in memory of a local pool legend.
Cue World is hosting the Jim Pratt Memorial Trophy Knock Out tournament on Sunday to honor Jim Pratt, who was known as "Mr Pool" before he died in March, aged 75. Trophies will be presented to the top three players.
Jim was brought up in Rendall Street, in Grimsby's West Marsh, but moved to the Willows Estate when it was built and worked at Courtaulds before retiring. He had been involved with the Grimsby And District Pool League for more than 30 years and was secretary when he died.
Linda Haynes, current chairman of the league, said: "I hope that the attendance on Sunday reflects all Jim's hard work and dedication to the sport. "Even if people cannot play, it would be great if they could come down and show some support for the event in Jim's memory."
Jim inspired hundreds of people in the local area to become fantastic pool players over the years and was a well-known, loved and respected member of the community.
Jim's wife, Mary, will be there to watch young and old players compete for the brand new trophies.
John Leyland, the owner of Cue World, was one of a handful of people who helped organize the tournament and spoke very highly of Mr Pratt. Mr Leyland said: "Jim was an excellent advert and true servant to the game. "I am honored to host the tournament as Jim was a great player but, more than anything, a great friend."
Councillor Cliff Barber, also involved in organizing the event, knew Mr Pratt for more than 40 years. Mr Barber said: "It should be a good day and I hope we have a good turnout to honor Jim's memory. "As the man himself would say, it is not about winning, it is the taking part that counts."
Entrance into the knockout tournament costs £5 and it starts at 12.30pm on Sunday. Crystal awards and trophies will be presented to the winners. The winner will be rewarded with a silver engraved trophy and two runners-up will get crystal trophies.
Jackie Jones, owner of Gradely Sports, said: "We were more than happy to donate such a fitting tribute to a lovely man who was not just a customer, but a good friend, too.
"He will be sorely missed. Hopefully, this tournament will keep his memory alive."
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