Vera Selby, the first winner of the World Women’s Snooker Championship back in 1976, has died at the age of 93.
Selby, from Yorkshire, was an early pioneer in women’s cue sports, as a player, referee and TV commentator. In 2016 she was awarded the MBE for services to sport.
After landing her first world title in 1976 by beating Muriel Hazeldine 4–0 in the final, she won the event again in 1981 at the age of 51 with a 3-0 defeat of Mandy Fisher. She also won the World Women’s Billiards Championship eight times between 1970 and 1978.
In 1982 she was part of the BBC commentary team at the World Championship. Selby continued to play and coach well into her 80s. In 2016 she took part in Women’s Day at the Crucible.
Shaun Murphy wrote on social media: “I didn’t get to meet Vera Selby, but she was one of the pioneers of Women’s Snooker and an early trail-blazer for girls and women who followed. May she rest in peace.”
Reanne Evans added: “I’ve just been told that Vera Selby past away last night age 93, so sad. I had the pleasure meeting Vera in Sheffield, doing a few interviews together. God bless Vera.”
WST and WPBSA thank Vera for her tremendous contribution to our sport and send condolences to her friends and family.
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