Which snooker tournament was first staged in 1977 at the Guild Hall in Preston?

The UK Championship was first staged in 1977 at the Guild Hall in Preston.

The tournament was created as a major professional event for members of the Professional Billiards and Snooker Association. It became one of snooker’s most important competitions and is now part of the sport’s Triple Crown alongside the World Championship and the Masters.

The first edition was won by John Spencer, who defeated Doug Mountjoy in the final. The event has used different venues and sponsorship names over the years, but its status as a leading ranking tournament has remained.

The UK Championship is separate from the World Championship even though both are prestigious professional events. Its traditional position late in the calendar has often made it an important test of form during the season.