The Quedgeley based Academy, a World Centre of Excellence, is Milkins’ home base, and he’s set to be joined by the World’s Top 90 professionals for the star-studded event.

“It’s great to have the support of the local Gloucester fans at these events” commented Milkins.

“They’ve travelled all over the country to see my matches in the past, so to have these events here in Gloucester is a real treat for the local fans.”

Milkins’ first match is scheduled at 3.00pm on Friday 7 September and he will face the winner of a qualifying round.

Players have to win three matches to reach the Last 16 stage, which is played on Sunday 9 September at 10.00am, the Quarter Finals are at 1.00pm, the Semi Finals at 4.00pm and the Final at 7.00pm.

Spectators can buy tickets for the event by visiting www.southwestsnookeracademy.com and using the Online Shop, or by calling into the

Academy on Waterwells Business Park in Quedgeley, or telephone 01452 223214, or on the door.

Tickets are just £10 for a full day’s play, or £25.00 for a three day pass. Under 16s and Seniors Citizens are only £5 for the day.

Milkins hopes to build on a successful start to the season which has seen him qualifying for two forthcoming events in China.

Last season the Gloucester star reached the semi finals of the Haikou World Open in Hainan, beating John Higgins along the way.

Milkins Baby Boom

Later this month Milkins jets off to compete in the Shanghai Masters and later in the year in the new International Championship.

“I don’t know why I tend to do well in the China events” said Milkins. “Everyone asks me and maybe it’s because I’ve been there so many time that I don’t feel any pressure in the qualifying rounds and I’m relaxed when I get there.”

“It’s hard to be away from home so often, especially now we have another new addition to the family. Elisha is six months old and last time I was in China I had a mad dash to get the flight home and to the hospital just in time for her birth.

“Charlie is 23 months now, but it’s my job and it’s what puts the bread on the table for my family.”