SNOOKER whiz-kid Steven Hallworth's career could take-off like a rocket if he wins a forthcoming event at the Crucible, Sheffield.

The 15-year-old, from Skellingthorpe, has qualified for the final of Ronnie O'Sullivan's 'Future Stars' event and will compete during this year's World Championships in May.

The Priory LSST pupil (pictured left) is one of eight youngsters to have made the final and will compete in skills tasks designed by 'The Rocket' that will test his cue technique and ball control.

The winner bags a cool £5,000 plus a year's tutelage under the three-times world champion.

Stephen's father Pete is extremely proud and excited at his son's progress.

"We are all very excited for Steven and it is a fantastic achievement for him," he said.

"He started playing at the age of five when he picked a pool cue up on holiday and never looked back.

"He has been playing snooker for eight years, ever since he has been able to reach the table and is in the top-eight in the country for his age."

The teenager got the chance to take on world number four Mark Selby, in a one-off match, after winning the Under-17 Lincoln and District Billiards and Snooker Association title in 2009 and also won the local Ronnie O'Sullivan event last year – the first year the Riley's Snooker Club-supported event was held.

The week before last, the 2009 UK CYP (Children and young person's) champion reached the last eight of the EASB (English Association of Snooker and Billiards) Championships.

He has been very well supported by Riley's Snooker Club, Lincoln, who have provided him with a free table to practise on for a year.

He is also able to use a free table at RAF Waddington.

Steven is looking for sponsorship as he looks to progress and his dad, Pete, can be contacted on 01522 688322.