ONE of the best amateur billiards players Bury has ever produced, Jackie Birch, died last Sunday.

The 72-year-old was born and bred in Tottington and although he gave the game up competitively a number of years ago always kept a keen interest in the local scene and was always willing to offer a word of advice to youngsters taking up the game.

His funeral service will be held at St Hilda's RC Church, Tottington next Monday December 10 at 10am.