Crucible's colourful history

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Dennis Taylor and his unforgettable celebrations in 1985 following the titanic battle with Steve Davis

Joe Johnson stunned everybody with his victory in 1986

Canadian Cliff Thorburn was the first man from outside the British Isles to win, beating Alex Higgins in 1980

Canadian Kirk Stevens always provided a little chic to the championships in Sheffield

Welshman Ray Reardon claimed the world crown six times - his first was in 1970 after beating John Pulman

Alex Higgins always provided thrills and spills on the baize at the Crucible

Hendry shares his joy with his family after winning in 1994 - a third final defeat of Jimmy White in a row

Terry Griffiths is an experienced campaigner at the Crucible - his only final win was in 1979

An overjoyed Ken Doherty stopped Stephen Hendry in his tracks in 1997

John Higgins was delighted after overcoming Ken Doherty in 1998

Stephen Hendry claimed back the World Championships trophy after a three year absence in 1999

Mark Williams is the current holder of the world crown

MORE CRUCIBLE HISTORY

Hendry's Crucible memories
Stephen Hendry speaks to BBC Sport Online's Pranav Soneji about his thoughts on the Embassy World Championships.

Crucible's colourful history
Pictures of the key moments and highlights from a dazzling past in snooker's World Championship at Sheffield.

Sheffield's very own Whirlwind
JImmy White fails to qualify for the World Championship for the first time in 20 years - BBC Sport Online looks back at his colourful career.

Davis: An 'interesting' legend
Steve Davis will not be playing at the World Championships and BBC Sport Online looks back at the man who once dominated snooker.

Crucible's top 10 moments
BBC Sport Online highlights the 10 most memorable moments from the Crucible's 25 year history of holding the World Championships.