A BANGOR man and former World Pool champion is on a mission to once again make the local area a ‘hot bed’ for cue sports after breathing new life into a long-established snooker hall.
Sam Newell has taken over the Crucible Snooker Hall located at 9 Central Avenue in Bangor, which has been renamed The Cue Zone to reflect all cue sports.
For years, Ards and North Down has been home to a vibrant pool and snooker community, but 11-time Northern Ireland champion and ex-professional player Sam hopes the reimagined venue can provide a haven for players of all skill levels which he feels has been missing.
“I’m really looking forward to bringing a new lease of life to the sport in the local area which was previously a hot bed for pool,” he said.
“Interest in cue sports is at an all-time high with Ultimate Pool and IPA Pool being shown on TV, with lots of Northern Ireland players involved.”
The Cue Zone boasts six pristine tournament-quality pool tables with LED lighting, as well as three full size snooker tables – two of which are heated.
With decades spent perfecting his craft and mentoring up-and-coming players and those with disabilities, Sam plans to host monthly competitions for both pool and snooker, alongside coaching sessions for beginners through to advanced players.
“There are lots of great pool halls in Northern Ireland but none in this area and I plan to change that,” Sam added.
Walk-ins at the venue are welcome and advance bookings can be made via phone on 07927 414480.
The Cue Zone is open from Monday to Friday between 3pm and 11pm, and on weekends from 1pm to 7pm. Follow @TheCueZoneNI on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
