I was about 11 years old when I won my first junior competition - that's when I realised snooker was something I wanted to pursue.

I started playing when I was nine after watching my dad play.

I used to practice all the time and I learned a lot from just playing.

But I did get some tips early on, like how to stun the ball or put side on it.

I was 13 when I made my first century break.

I think I was 16 or 17 when I got my first 147 - although I've never managed one in tournament play.

I practice for about five or six hours a day.

Some of that is doing practice routines, other times playing against someone else.

Natural ability counts for so much in snooker - there's only so much you can teach.

But there are times when you need to call on advice from others.

That's why most of the top players have coaches these days.

I'm no different and I work closely with former world champion Terry Griffiths.

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