A memorial service for the late snooker legend John Virgo was held at Sheffield Cathedral on Thursday, almost two months after his death. The event, attended by his widow Rosie Ries, saw a host of snooker greats including Dennis Taylor, Steve Davis, Stephen Hendry, Ken Doherty, and John Parrott. Fans also filled around 600 seats to pay their respects.
Doherty and snooker's Master of Ceremonies Rob Walker organised the service to celebrate Virgo's life and his half-century-plus contribution to the sport. Walker emphasised the importance of acknowledging Virgo's legacy, while Parrott noted that the upcoming World Championships at the Crucible would feel very different without Virgo's voice, which was synonymous with snooker.
Tributes poured in from fellow professionals. Dennis Taylor, a long-time friend, said the World Championship will not be the same without Virgo, and he plans to use Virgo's catchphrase “where’s the cue ball going” during the tournament in his honour. Stephen Hendry described Virgo’s death as leaving a huge gap in the sport, while Ken Doherty called him a big brother and father figure.
John Parrott joked that Virgo is now “in the great commentary box in the sky” with his friend Willie Thorne, and thanked him for 40 years of friendship. The service also included a reading by Steve Davis and a performance of The Beatles' Here Comes the Sun by the choir. A reception followed at Sheffield Town Hall.
