Thailand: Snooker legends visit Father Ray Foundation

A game to remember

Two of the world’s best known snooker players visited the Father Ray Children’s Home in Pattaya, Thailand last week, where they played several games of pool with the children.

Snooker legend Jimmy 'the Whirlwind' White and former world champion Ken Doherty, who were in the country for the Six-Red Snooker Tournament in Bangkok, took time out of their busy schedule to visit the home which looks after children who have been orphaned, abused or abandoned on the streets of Pattaya.

Upon arrival they were welcomed by more than 100 children, workers and volunteers and were given garlands by the younger children. Soon after they launched into action and showed off their skills with the cue on two recently donated pool tables. Since the tables were installed the game has become a popular pastime for the children and they didn’t hesitate to challenge the visitors to a game and show how good they are.

After playing non-stop for over an hour Jimmy White and Ken Doherty were surrounded by children asking for autographs, with t-shirts, school books and even hands being signed.

Derek Franklin, from the Father Ray Foundation, said: “It was a day the children at the Father Ray Children’s Home will never forget; the day two sporting legends came to visit and even though the visit was part of a very busy schedule, both Jimmy White and Ken Doherty demonstrated to everyone what true gentlemen they are.”

Father Ray's home is supported by the Thai Children's Trust. For more information or to make a donation go to: www.thaichildrenstrust.org.uk/