Defending champion Lee Westwood, much to the annoyance of the “raging” promoter and BBC Television, had to wait until 4.05pm to resume the Quinn Insurance British Masters at The Belfry today.

The European Tour today rejected a request from both the tournament promoter and BBC Television to speed up the third round of the British Masters at The Belfry.

The party interested in buying troubled Gretna today held talks with the Scottish Football League.

Gretna caretaker boss Mick Wadsworth admitted “it’s the end of the line” for staff who fought to save the club as he and the entire workforce at Raydale Park were made redundant.

World number one Shaun Murphy has advanced to the second round of the Maplin UK Snooker Championship in Telford with a 9-5 win over Cardiff's Paul Davies.

Pop superstar Madonna has paid $12m (€8.9m) for her sixth house in London.

Judd Trump is one win away from becoming the youngest person to play at the Crucible in 14 years after beating Jamie Cope 10-7 to reach the final qualifying round of the 888.com World Championship at Prestatyn today.

Most people nowadays have more material possessions than they need and it’s almost impossible to select suitable Christmas presents for them. One option is to give books, so here are a few suggestions.

Robert Milkins believes he would now be challenging for honours but for his suspect temperament.

Ronnie O’Sullivan will be reported for failing to attend his after match press conference at the Irish Masters tonight.

Ken Doherty has learnt that he will take on Barry Pinches in the opening round of the Irish masters following today’s draw.

Ronnie O’Sullivan is in for a tough match this afternoon when he makes his first appearance at the £688,000 Stan James British Open if results in Newcastle so far are any guide.