A DETERMINED Wiltshire teenager with an eye for a pocket scooped a prestigious honour when landing Hampshire’s Premier Junior Club title.

Riley Ellis, based in Clyffe Pypard near Royal Wootton Bassett, reaped the rewards after years of hard work and determination after he was crowned Eastleigh & District Junior League U19 champion for the first time.

The 15-year-old caught the attention of World Snooker coach Tim Dunkley after the latter read an article about the talented teenager in the Adver several years ago.

Since, Ellis has made the 123-mile round trip every week from his Wiltshire base to Chandlers Ford Snooker Club near Winchester.

And his hard work is now evidently starting to pay off.

“It’s something I’ve been working towards for a few years now,” said Ellis.

“I’m really pleased to have achieved this goal.”

Ellis, who is sponsored by Swindon-based Save On Tyres and has a high break in competition of 58, finished the 20-week season two points clear of England international Oliver Sykes – though Sykes played four weeks fewer than Ellis mainly due to national junior tournaments.

Also competing in the Under 20s Regional Development Tour and the Cuestars U21 Silver Tour, it would seem the only way is up for Ellis.

And with the English U16s championships coming up in May, coach Dunkley revealed his pride.

He added: “Riley has come a long way since I contacted his family through the Advertiser.

“As with any sport, there are highs and lows. Riley should gain confidence from this and take his game to the next level.

“It does take hard work, but the rewards are massive.”