The Jameson International final 1983 table plate

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David Smith, Cues n Views acquired this very unusual snooker table plaque many years ago. It has a unique story.

The professional ranking snooker tournament that took place between 1 and 9 October 1983 at the Eldon Square Recreation Centre in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England was the 1983 International Open, officially the 1983 Jameson International Open.

ITV provided the television coverage showing how Thorburn and Davis met in the final commemorated on the plaque..

John Spencer defeated defending champion Tony Knowles in the last 16 round.

Cliff Thorburn beat Terry Griffiths 9 to 8 in the first semi-final winning the last four frames. At one stage Griffiths had led 5 to 1.

Steve Davis beat Eddie Charlton 9 to 2 in the second semi-final and so Steve Davis met Cliff Thorburn in the final.

Davis led 6 to 2 after the afternoon session and eventually won 9 to 4. Davis dominated the match with strong play throughout.

Davis was presented with the first prize of £24,000 for his win and another £1,500 prize for the high break of 120 against Mike Watterson at the last 16 stage.

This tournament was significant as it was one of the early ranking events in professional snooker outside of the World Championship.

Eldon Square Recreation Centre had two full-size snooker tables, and the venue hosted the Jameson International tournament in both 1983 and 1984. However, the Recreation Centre is now long gone, it was part of the old Eldon Square area that underwent extensive redevelopment. The two tables were probably scrapped when the Recreation Centre was vacated.

John A Smith
Cues n Views