A RISING snooker star from Widnes will be looking to prove himself the surprise package when he squares up to some of the UK's top talent in two weeks time.

Andrew Higginson is hoping to continue his rise up the ranks of world snooker by causing a splash at the 2002 Benson and Hedges Championship.

The 24-year-old rose 22 places to 71st last season, his highest ever in the World Embassy rankings, and will line up alongside 194 fellow professionals for the contest opener in Mansfield on Monday, October 21.

The massive event is open to all pros out of the top 16 with the eventual winner going on to compete in the prestigious Benson and Hedges Masters with the likes of world number one Ronnie O'Sullivan and legend Jimmy White.

As well as a Masters wildcard, Higginson will be playing for the winner's cheque of £6,000 and earn a match against Alan McManus at Wembley.

The 15th-ranked player is the tournament's inaugural champion and the loser of that game is guaranteed a £12,000 share of the £750,000 prize money.

Higginson, who only became professional in 1995, has won over £50,000 in his career, £20,000 of that coming last season.

He will also be looking to beat his best performance when he reached the last 48 of the 2000 British Open and go all the way.

The Benson and Hedges Snooker Championship is hosted by Towers Snooker Club, in Botany Road, and lasts until Thursday, October 31.

Admission costs £1 for club members and £3 for non-club members, and seats may be reserved in advance by contacting the club on 01623 654759.