Ian McCulloch

Lancashire’s leading snooker player McCulloch has appeared in two ranking finals though he has yet to lift a major trophy.
His first was the 2002 British Open in Telford when he saw off the likes of John Higgins and Mark Williams but eventually lost to Paul Hunter.
The second was at the 2004 Grand Prix when McCulloch was inspired by his local fans at the Preston Guild Hall, beating Stephen Hendry and Stephen Maguire on his way to the final.
Ronnie O’Sullivan ran out a 9-5 winner but McCulloch said: “I’m sure I will win one eventually. It was very special to have a good run on home turf in Preston.”
Later that season, the left-hander enjoyed a brilliant run in the World Championship, beating Graeme Dott 10-9, Mark Williams 13-12 and Alan McManus 13-8 to reach the semi-finals.
He put up an impressive fight against Matthew Stevens but it was the Welshman who went through 17-14.

Last season was a disappointing one for McCulloch as he slipped down to No 26. His only ranking quarter-final was at the Welsh Open where he beat O’Sullivan 5-1 but could not get the better of friend Anthony Hamilton.
In the final round of qualifying for the 888.com World Snooker Championship, McCulloch suffered an agonising defeat against another close pal, Dave Harold, going down 10-9 after a battle on the colours in the deciding frame.

Ian enjoys playing golf, keeping fit and supporting Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End. His quick-witted nature has made him very popular, on the exhibition circuit around Lancashire.