Sixteen-year-old Gavin Robinson of Bishop Auckland has secured a place in the last 16 of the EASB National under-16 finals.

With only one place available from the North-East he turned in some top quality performances at the recent preliminary play-offs at the Gateshead Snooker Club.

It was always going to be difficult to qualify for the talented cue king, especially when he got off to the worst possible start by losing the opening two frames against England junior international Steven Cragie.

However, Gavin kept his nerve and won four straight frames to win his first match 4-2 but, with that battle out of the way, his second match was not much easier and again found himself 2-1 down.

Gavin levelled the match and then went ahead with a 67 break before winning the match 4-2.

In the final Gavin faced John Astley from Newcastle and this turned out to be the match of the day.

Gavin again lost the first frame before going into a two-frames to one lead, and then knocking in the highest break of the day with a 74 to make a 3-1 lead.

Gavin was now in control and the match looked to be all over, however, John Astley had other ideas; playing solid snooker, kept Gavin off the table and levelled the match 3-3 and a deciding frame.

John got off to the better start going 20 points ahead and getting more confidence. Gavin kept his nerve again knocking in a 30 break but faced a tough decision. Having finished high on the black and right on the cushion whether to take it or play safe, to his supporters' relief he played it safe.

With one red on the table and both players wanting to win badly, the nerves were always going to come into it.

After several safety shots and with Gavin having a 23 points lead, John saw his chance when Gavin fouled on the last red and left a free ball.

John potted green as his free ball then pink and red and pink again, but finished low on the yellow. Needing to use the rest John rattled the yellow.

Gavin stepped in to take the remaining colours for the frame and match 4-3. Now in the last 16, the next round will not be played until March and will take place in the Midlands.

Gavin also played for Bishop Auckland Cricket Club and last season helped them win the South-West Durham League as well as the team knockout which they retained this season.

Gavin also entered the singles and doubles. Playing in the doubles with his father they reached the final, which was played at Bishop Auckland Golf Club and went on to win it.

Gavin then went on to reach the final of the singles which he also won against Phil McMasters which was played at the Southern Club at Newton Aycliffe.

As Gavin has been under age over the last two seasons, he would like to thank all at the club who allowed him to enter.