A handful of Sheffield’s most inspirational residents will have the opportunity to attend the final of the JenningsBet World Seniors Snooker Championship, as special guests, alongside the Lord Mayor.
Earlier this year, Sheffield City Council hosted the Lord Mayor Awards – a celebration of Sheffield’s trailblazers, making a difference to the city and to Sheffield life.
World Seniors Snooker has announced that they will be hosting the award winners, alongside Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Cllr Jayne Dunn, at the final of the JenningsBet World Seniors Snooker Championship on Sunday 11 May at the Crucible Theatre.
The Lord Mayor will celebrate with her winners at a champagne reception in the presence of some snooker legends before enjoying the afternoons match, where a new World Seniors Snooker champion will be crowned.
Jason Francis, Chairman of World Seniors, said: “The final of our World Championship is the biggest day of our season and so it’s great to be able to host the Lord Mayor and her award winners to further celebrate this great city of Sheffield, the home of snooker.”
Cllr Jayne Dunn, Lord Mayor of Sheffield, said: “When I was appointed Lord Mayor, I pledged to make sure that the achievements of our residents and the dedication they show to the city is given a platform, and the Lord Mayor Awards, which took place earlier this year, did just that.
“I am delighted that those worthy winners will now be honoured once again at the World Seniors Championships. Sheffield loves snooker, which is why I am delighted to attend the final – for the first-ever and very special Lord Mayor’s Day – to celebrate Sheffield, its residents and snooker.”
The JenningsBet World Seniors Snooker Championship, which will be aired once again this year live on Channel 5, follows on from the World Snooker Championship and gives snooker legends including Jimmy White, Ken Doherty, Tony Drago and more another chance to play at snooker’s most famous venue, which defined many of their careers.
The 2025 Championship in May will see players from nine countries compete for the title won last year by Igor Figueiredo from Brazil. It will be played from Wednesday 7 May to Sunday 11 May 2025.
The Winners of the Lord Mayor Awards 2025 with Cllr Jayne Dunn, Lord Mayor of Sheffield and representatives from the Headline Sponsor, E.ON Blackburn Meadows
Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community supported by TravelMaster- Winner: Firas Sharefy
Firas has significantly contributed to the Sheffield community, especially aiding vulnerable populations as an asylum seeker from Iraq. He co-founded the Refugee Asylum Seeker Action Group (RASAG) and Open Kitchen Social Club (OKSC), providing free meals and promoting social inclusion for vulnerable people in Sheffield. His efforts have earned him high respect and praise for his kindness and leadership.
The award was presented on the night by John Henshall, General Manager at TravelMaster.
Outstanding Contribution to the Promotion of the Arts, Music and Culture supported by Utilita Arena & Sheffield City Hall- Winner: Jerry Cheung
Jerry has significantly contributed to Sheffield’s cultural landscape, particularly through organizing the Sheffield Lunar Chinese New Year Festival. His efforts have brought global attention to Sheffield, celebrating cultural diversity and reinforcing the city’s reputation for inclusivity and creativity.
Outstanding Contribution to Education supported by The Sheffield College- Winner: Cheriene Bailey
Cheriene has dedicated over 50 years to dance education, founding the Baily-Cox Dance Academy, and more recently Adult Ballet Sheffield with members ranging from age 18-84! Her lifelong commitment has impacted countless lives, sparking a love of dance in generations of students and promoting inclusive education.
The award was presented on the night by Angela Foulkes, Chief Exec & Principle at The Sheffield College
Outstanding Contribution to Local Sport supported by Westfield Health- Winner: Yuri Matischen
Yuri has made significant contributions to Sheffield’s sports event industry, including securing the first British bid for the World University Games and organizing major events like the European Swimming Championships. He established the Sheffield Sharks basketball club and contributed to the opening of the Canon Medical Arena, promoting Sheffield as a global sporting venue
Outstanding Contribution to The Environment or Science supported by Veolia- Winner: Sustainability Connects
The Sustainability Connects platform fosters connections and advocacy on sustainability and climate change topics, emphasizing integrated and holistic approaches. They have collaborated with Sheffield City Council’s Employee Equality Women’s Hub to deliver workshops and create the Women’s Hub Sustainability Pledge, promoting sustainable practices.
The award was presented on the night by Julie Adams, Regional Partnership Manager at Veolia
The Young Sheffield Hero supported by Kingfield Supported Living- Winner: Leah Walton
Leah has raised £51,000 for the Sheffield Children’s Hospital NHS in memory of her friend Jude Mellor. She organizes various fundraising activities, including sponsored swims and family fun days, demonstrating remarkable dedication and selflessness.
The award was presented on the night by Diane Lyons, Director at Kingfield Supported Living
The WPBSA World Seniors Tour 