RETIRED RAF test pilot David Stewart survived a six-month battle against the young guns of Chandler’s Ford Snooker Club to clinch the 17th Open Series.

The 53-year-old was older than the combined age of the players who finished second, third, fourth and fifth as he won the top prize of £300.

Stewart made his debut in the handicapped tournaments in October 2012, his first taste of competitive snooker since his days at Keele University.

He also competes on the Cuestars South of England Seniors Tour.

Stewart said: “It’s a 30-mile drive, but I find it worthwhile to come down. It’s a great competition.

“I particularly like playing the young guys and watching the progress they make over the weeks.”

Another north Hampshire player, 11-year-old Mickey Joyce from Winklebury, picked up the second prize of £250.

He missed the final tournament as he was playing in the English under-14 Championship, where he reached the last 16 before being beaten by Reggie Edwards from Norwich.

The rest of the top five in the Open Series was made up of Chandler’s Ford players Charlie Pringle (13), Dan Sykes (16) and nine-year-old Oliver Sykes.