St Neots welcomes former world snooker champion John Parrott

Former world snooker champion John Parrott helped pocket nearly £10,000 for good causes when he addressed an annual fundraiser.

The Liverpudlian was at the Priory Centre in St Neots to address the Rotary Club of St Neots St Marys Sportmans’ Night.

More than 300 people attended the event which has raised more than £190,000 for charities since it was first held in 1990.

Club president Ian Taylor also used the occasion to present the club’s first “Children of Courage Award”.

It was given to Ruth Putley, a 17-year-old who has acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

She is a pupil at Prospect House, which hosts lessons for students with medical or behavioural needs which mean they cannot attend school full-time.

The award was introduced by Mr Taylor who wanted to congratulate a young person who had overcome severe disability and illness.

He praised Ruth, who received a certificate and a voucher, for the way she had coped and the fact that she remained cheerful and optimistic. “She’s a brave young lady, so buoyant,” he said.

The Sportmans’ Night also included entertainment by comic Rod Woodward and a raffle.

The money raised will go towards good causes supported by the club.