World Seniors Snooker to Stage British Open in Derby

World Seniors Snooker (WSS) is delighted to announced that the 2025 British Seniors Open which will take place at Vaillant Live in Derby on 26-28 December 2025.

This new TV event will be shown live on 5 and sees snooker return to Derby for the first time since 1993 with eight players competing for the title.

Among those in action will be Jimmy ‘The Whirlwind’ White, 1997 world champion Ken Doherty, reigning World Seniors Snooker champion Alfie Burden and WSS debutant Matthew Stevens.

Former professionals Joe Perry and Dominic Dale also return to action while two more stellar names will be announced soon.

The event begins on Boxing Day with sessions taking place at 13:00 and 19:00. The semi-finals will be held on the afternoon of Saturday 27 December, while the final takes place on Sunday afternoon.

During the weekend, fans will get the chance to attend a Legends Lunch before play where they will get to meet former world champions Dennis Taylor and John Parrott.

WSS Chairman Jason Francis said: “I fell in love with the sport by watching events like the British Open from Derby in the 1980’s and so it is great to be able to bring top class snooker back to the city for the first time in 32 years. We hope all the people who enjoyed attending those events will support its return this Christmas and bring some new fans with them.”

Four-time World Seniors Snooker champion Jimmy White said “I was lucky enough to win the British Open in Derby in 1987 and 1992 so to get a chance to go back and add the British Seniors Open title is a great opportunity. I know how much people in Derby love snooker and so I hope they will come and pack the place out.”

Vaillant Live General Manager, Marcus Sheehan, said “This is a fantastic opportunity to bring snooker back to Derby! There’s a huge sporting appetite in the city and years of great tournaments at the Assembly Rooms. We can’t wait to bring this brilliant tournament to Vaillant Live!”

Derby South MP Baggy Shanker said: “Derby is a natural stage for major sporting events with passionate fans, a rich sporting legacy, and now a new world-class city centre venue to match. From hosting the British Open to welcoming the World Seniors Snooker Tour this Christmas, Derby is once again proving itself as a great destination for top-level sport.”

“Snooker has long been part of our story and, as a fan myself, I’m proud to see it return. It’s a chance for loyal supporters and new audiences to enjoy the game on their doorstep – and to show the rest of the country the very best of Derby.”

Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased by visiting www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Please note that the Legends Lunch Packages are only available on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 December  and include food before play, a meet and greet with Dennis Taylor and John Parrott, a complimentary goody bag and a prime seat for the snooker.