League Mourns Sad Loss
By Graham Clark

The Formby & District Snooker League is mourning the sad loss of its president, Mike Blundell, who sadly passed away on the 22nd December.

Affectionately known as ‘The Bull’, Mike had been involved in the League for close on forty years, winning the Clare Cup on at least three occasions and the Formby Pairs with Phil Kershaw while playing for the all conquering Holy Trinity B side of the late seventies and early eighties. Mike was also a prominent member of the Formby Senior team for many years, tackling the best Merseyside had to offer.

Mike’s ferocious competitiveness on the table was highlighted by the sign that appeared on the door of the Holy Trinity club, ‘Beware of the Bull’. This struck fear into the visiting teams in similar fashion to the ‘This is Anfield’ sign does for Liverpool FC. Despite his on table demeanour, Mike was an amiable gentleman off it with an extremely witty dry sense of humour, his stories kept people captivated and in tears of laughter on many occasions.

Mike’s love of his life, Snooker, was cruelly taken from him a few years ago when his diabetes was diagnosed, quickly taking his eyesight. Despite his failing health over recent years Mike never complained or let his spirits drop. His sense of humour was always in evidence at the Legion quiz nights where he would be presented with the ‘Picture quiz’. He took all the banter that went with it and always had a quip in return. Mind you, he probably thought he could still do better than his team mates, who judging by their answers, could be viewed as suffering similar ailments.

In the last couple of years Mike was handed the presidency of the Snooker League, a position when his health allowed, he filled with distinction. During meetings, Mike’s opinion on whatever issues where being discussed were always attentively listened to. This showed the respect his peers held for him and how they shall miss him.

The sincere heartfelt sympathies of the League and its thanks for the part Mike has played in its history go out to Mike’s family and close friends.