Snooker loopy Margaret Cope, a resident at Sycamore Grove care home in Pevensey, began watching the sport at a young age but never found the opportunity to pick up the cue herself.
That was until Laurence Amstad, home service adviser at Sycamore Grove, found out about her ambition and arranged a surprise day out to over-50s activity centre Alice Croft House, in Eastbourne.
Laurence roped in Hastings snooker professional Mark Davis, who was once ranked 12th in the world, to give Margaret a coaching session.
Snooker loopy Margaret enjoyed an afternoon with professional Mark Davis (Image: Supplied)
“I am speechless. This is such a wonderful day and I am so grateful to everyone at Sycamore Grove for making this happen, I never would have thought I would be playing snooker at my age, but this is incredible,” said Margaret, who enjoyed the snooker session to celebrate her 101st birthday.
Mark gave Margaret a few pointers and was surprised at how naturally talented she was.
He said: “I have taught people half Margaret’s age who couldn’t even hit the cue ball, the fact she managed to pot some shots at her age is seriously impressive.
“A few more lessons like this and she might be able to join the players’ tour.”
Margaret even managed to pot a few balls during her game (Image: Supplied)
“It is important we support all fans of snooker, no matter their age and I am happy to give up my time for such an incredible fan of the game.”
Heather Nwansi, Sycamore Grove’s general manager, said it was lovely to see Margaret enjoy her birthday with Mark.
Mark said he was impressed with how the 101-year-old played (Image: Supplied)
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“We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us,” said Heather.
“We were all so excited for Margaret. Her reaction when she saw Mark Davis in front of the snooker table was just priceless and then when she got to have a go herself, she was a natural.
“Mark Davis and the team at Alice Croft House are just the kindest and most wonderful people helping us make this happen. We have all loved being part of making Margaret’s dream come true.”
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