GEORGE Holden lost his unbeaten record in the Blackburn and Darwen Individual Snooker League, falling to defeat at the hands of in-form Ricky Hardman.

Hardman produced a splendid attacking performance, inflicting a 3-1 defeat on man of the moment Holden.

Alf Bellusci defeated Tommy Hannan by the same scoreline.

Andy Lancaster continued to impress, beating Elmo Bellusci 3-1 and knocking in a run of 55 in the process.

Matt Holden was also in the groove, beating out of form Bernard Clough 3-0. Nigel Holmes posted his first win, a 3-2 victory over John Lynn.

Mark Slattery and Edward Holgate treated an enthusiastic crowd to a thrilling five framer, Slattery taking the decider thanks to a 63 break.

Joe Hanlon ended the day with another victory, this time 3-0 over Bob Mawman.

Jimmy Brookens was also in red hot form, taking the opener 3-1 against Neil Payton.

Alan Heaton got his first win on the board too, overpowering Frank Jex 3-1. Jex was left to rue a host of missed opportunities as Heaton made him pay a heavy price.

Heaton will be sure to take heart from this win and should now settle into the competition.

The final game was a cracker between Lee Whittle and youngster Jonny Hannan.

It was Hannan who nicked the first frame on the colours after a loose safety shot from his opponent.

Whittle hit back with a wonderful run of 65 that could have been more for a missed pink.

The last two frames both went to Hannan - giving him the match 3-1.