Barry Hearn confirms UK Championship will return to York next year

York success: China's Sheffield-based cueman Ding Junhui won the 2019 UK Championship. Picture: Richard Sellers/PA Wire

This year’s tournament is being staged in Milton Keynes in order to meet Covid-19 regulations, but next year World Snooker Tour plans to return to York, which has become the home of the UK Championship since it was first staged at the Barbican in 2001.

WST Chairman Barry Hearn said: “The news that we will return to York next year for the UK Championship is absolutely fantastic for our players and the people of Yorkshire.

“The Barbican has become synonymous with this event having hosted us for many years and everyone on the circuit loves the annual fortnight in the beautiful city of York.

Good to be back: UK Championship promoter Barry Hearn. Picture: Richard Sellers/PA Wire.

“In today’s circumstances it has been a great achievement to keep all of our events going at the excellent venue in Milton Keynes, however it gives us a real thrill to be able to look forward to returning to cities around the world next year and to feel the warmth and passion of the live snooker crowd.

“The wonderful people who fill the arena at the Barbican each year – and those who have never been before – can join us in looking forward to experiencing the magic of live snooker again in a year’s time. Fans must book your tickets quickly as demand will be higher than ever.”

The 2021 event will run from November 23 to December 5. Tickets will be on sale on the day of this year’s final, this Sunday from 10am.

For a limited time only, tickets for dates between November 27 and December 2 are half price, but fans must book fast to take advantage of this special offer. Visit www.wst.tv/tickets for ticket prices and booking details.