AN elderly avid snooker fan from Droitwich Spa has finally seen his favourite player lift the world crown after ten years of waiting.

Edgar Hudson, of Welland Close, has had one of the best seats in the house for eight of the last ten world championships at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre.

And earlier this month he took up his prized seat, two rows back and right next to the players, to watch Ronnie O'Sullivan win the trophy for the second time.

Mr Hudson makes his pilgrimage north for the last nine days of the sport's 17-day marathon each year - clocking up a staggering two and a half months at the venue over the last decade.

Illness stopped him attending in 1998 and 2001, the first time O'Sullivan won the title. There were also doubts over this year but he decided to go at the eleventh hour.

He said: "I thought long and hard about it and was determined to go.

"This year it was an effort to go. I found it hard going but I went and enjoyed it. Since I lost my wife I make it my annual holiday."

Friends often catch a glimpse of Mr Hudson just about every time the BBC cameras focus on the players.

He has also become a bit of Crucible celebrity, with fellow fans recognising him each year. Even commentator Willie Thorne once joked whether Mr Hudson had bought the seat, such is the time he has had it.

And just to keep viewers on their toes, Edgar always packs in excess of 20 shirts and ties to wear during his stay.