John Virgo: The snooker star who was player, broadcaster and entertainer

John Virgo became one of snooker's best-loved commentators after retiring from the sport in the mid-90s

John Virgo's snooker playing career peaked in 1979 when he reached the semi-finals of the World Championship and won the UK Championship. Pic: Trevor Jones/Getty Images

John Virgo arrived early for snooker’s golden age – but his unintended tardiness almost cost him his crowning moment on the baize.

Virgo, who has died at the age of 79, is best known for questioning the destination of the cue ball during more than three decades of commentating on the sport on the BBC.