Taylor-made champ

11:17am Wednesday 9th April 2008

FORMER snooker world champion Dennis Taylor admits he still enjoys returning to the Crucible Theatre, the scene of his famous victory in 1985.

The likeable Irishman, famous for his over-sized glasses, said: "I still feel special every time I travel over the Pennines and into Sheffield for the Championships. Even though I am not playing now, being a commentator is the next best thing."

He recalls that famous final against Steve Davis, the reigning world champion and the man to beat at the time. Taylor said: "Steve Davis was dominating the game at the time and people thought that it was going to be the worst game ever to be shown on television.

"When I was 8-0 down it looked like it would be all over after the first session, but I fought my way back to 9-7 and, in the end, took it to a deciding frame, which I won on the black."

He added: "I spoke to Steve recently and he joked that people only remember that final he lost, not the ones he won."

As to who would take the crown this year when the World Championships start later this month, the former champion said: "It is very open this year. There are about six players who could win it.

"If I had to pick one it would be Mark Selby, but Ronnie O'Sullivan will be a threat if he turns up at the Crucible with his snooker head on.

"There are a couple of Chinese players who could also do well. The game has really taken off in China. Out there, Ronnie O'Sullivan is like a David Beckham."

Taylor is a popular man and a true "people person", as he proved when he turned up at the recent promotion for Brackenwood Windows and Conservatories, in Basingstoke.

On that day, he entertained the crowds with an exhibition match with Martin Charlton and also gave a great display of trick shots, as well as keeping the audience amused with his stories of Ireland and snooker.

Away from snooker in 2005, he appeared on the BBC TV show Strictly Come Dancing with partner Izabela Hannah.

Talking about if he would take part in any other reality programmes, he said: "Dancing on Ice is too dangerous for me and I have been asked to go on I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here but there is no way you are getting me in the jungle."

A busy man who makes many personal appearances, Taylor's next stop will be in the commentary box at his beloved Crucible.