A BASINGSTOKE student, who has raised thousands for charity, needs help to allow him to compete in the world amateur snooker championships next year.

Mason Wilson plays in under-21 tournaments, both professional and amateur events across the county, and has the opportunity to take part in the world amateur championship in Albania where he will be up against some of the best amateur players in the world.

However, to get there he needs to raise £1,500.

“I just love it,” Mason said. “Snooker is my passion. I’ve been lucky enough to have great support since I started playing, especially from my dad, mum and nan.

Basingstoke Gazette: Mason with his cheque outside Basingstoke College of Technology

READ MORE: Basingstoke teenager raises thousands of pounds for Marie Curie

"I would love to be able to play at the amateur championships where I could play against some of the best in the world and some ex-professionals."

The 18-year-old has received a £500 donation from Basingstoke College of Technology where he is currently studying a BTEC Level 3 in advanced manufacturing engineering and has launched a crowdfunding campaign to gather more support.

Mason started playing pool at the age of five before moving to snooker at nine-years-old. He recently won his first Cuestars snooker tournament and won the Newbury U21 cup at the beginning of this year.

Anthony Bravo, principal at BCoT, added: “As a college, it is important for us to support our students with their endeavours and passions outside of their studies as well as during their time in the classroom. We are very proud of Mason and all that he has achieved in the game of snooker so far and so we were delighted to donate to his crowdfunding campaign.”

Basingstoke Gazette:

Over the years, Mason has used snooker to raise awareness and money for charities such as Marie Curie and Macmillan Cancer Support. He trains between 16 and 20 hours a week at the Snooker Academy in Basingstoke and has been able to find a happy balance between managing his college work and practice time.

SEE ALSO: Basingstoke teenager to raise money for Marie Curie by playing non-stop snooker

Mason eventually wants to turn professional, and competing on the world stage at amateur level is the next step in his journey if he wins, as well as receiving up to £8,000 prize money he will also win a two-year professional tour card.

Mason added: “It’s always been a dream of mine to compete at the amateur world championships and turn professional. It seems within reach. But things are so expensive now, that sponsorship is my only option. I’ve already received some support, from friends and family and the college, which I am incredibly grateful for. If I get there, I hope to make everyone proud.”

To support Mason, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Chance-to-play-in-Albania?utm_term=AD4bdywaY.