Tributes are being paid to snooker legend Alex ‘Hurricane’ Higgins who tragically lost his fight against throat cancer on Saturday at the age of 61. The Belfast born player suffered long term alcohol and smoking problems following his victories in the 1972 and 1978 World Snooker Championship finals.

Known for his rebellious character the Hurricane is widely considered as the most talented player ever to pick up a cue. His electrifying style established him as one of snooker’s greatest talents and his personality helped take snooker to a wider audience than the sport had previously enjoyed. Heart-felt tributes from snooker legends including Steve Davis, Ronnie O’Sullivan, Willie Thorne and John Parrott have flooded in. Amongst snooker professionals he is still considered a genius and many modern day players have cited him as the player that inspired them to play snooker. He will be sorely missed for both his ability at the snooker table but his unique personality that won the admiration of a generation of snooker fans and players.