GWENT has always been a hotbed of snooker talent with the likes of Ray Reardon and Mark Williams putting the region on the map by winning nine world titles between them.

The area’s next generation of cue stars hope to emulate those two legends of the game, including Liam Davies from Tredegar.

Just this month the 12-year-old took part in the BetVictor Shoot Out in Watford, making him the youngest player ever to compete in a professional tournament.

As well as that, the youngster, who practices out of the family-owned Scala Snooker Club in Merthyr Tydfil, is the reigning under-14 and under-16 Welsh champion.

His achievements have seen him nominated for Young Sports Personality of the Year in the South Wales Argus Sports Awards, which are hosted by Chepstow Racecourse on May 22.

“He is a credit to his sport, practices hard every day, and supports and has time for others less fortunate or just starting out on the journey he has already taken,” said dad Leyton.

“Liam plays in junior events around the country and all local snooker leagues, he supports local police with young offenders in the club where he practices. He always has time for everyone.”

* Nominations for the South Wales Argus Sports Awards can be made by visiting www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sportsawards – the closing date is Monday, March 18.

Award sponsors

Chepstow Racecourse (Sports Personality of the Year)

Monmouthshire Building Society (Dragons Player of the Year, Professional Sports Personality of the Year)

Western Power Distribution (Young Sports Personality of the Year)

Merlin Homes (Community Club of the Year)

Newport Live (Volunteer of the Year)

Johnson Phillips (Newport County Player of the Year)

University of South Wales (Coach of the Year)

St Joseph’s Hospital (Outstanding Services to Sport in Gwent)