THE York Barbican will again host snooker’s top stars at the Betway UK Championship later this year, it has been confirmed.

General admission tickets are now on sale, and tickets for the semi-finals and final will go on sale next week.

The UK Championship is snooker’s second most important and prestigious tournament, ahead the World Championship, with a history dating back to 1977.

All 128 players compete at the venue over 12 days, battling for the famous trophy.

The BBC-televised tournament runs from November 22 to December 4.

The event has been staged in York since 2011 - as well from 2001 to 2006 - and last year it was won by Neil Robertson, who beat Liang Wenbo in the final and made a sensational 147 maximum break.

In recent years the title has also been won by Ronnie O’Sullivan, Mark Selby and Judd Trump.

Crowds have hit record levels year on year in York and again tickets are expected to sell rapidly so fans are urged to book fast.

World Snooker chairman Barry Hearn said: “The Betway UK Championship has a fabulous history and each year we are treated to top-class snooker from the best players in the world.

"Since we changed the format of the event to start with all 128 players in the first round, we have seen great stories and incredible drama.

“This year’s event promises to be even better than ever, with the standard of play rising year upon year, and the established stars facing a persistent challenge from a new generation of fearless and exciting young potters.

“York is an exceptional venue and a wonderful city, the players are all looking forward to going back and I expect to see bigger crowds than ever.”

Tickets start at £6 (plus booking fees) and are available by phoning 0844 854 2757 or visiting www.worldsnooker.com/tickets