Cueing up for success

Doncaster's very own hustler Matt Lester had just sealed a new sponsorship deal with Cue King Promotions. He says that people who patronise him make him angry, and admits enjoying having the balls to take people on for money

What made you want to become a pool player?
Snooker was always my favourite sport. As I’ve got older I’ve wanted to take it more seriously. Playing on the British Wheelchair Pool tour gives me the chance to represent Great Britain and earn prize money, which is very appealing!

What’s the hardest or most spectacular shot you’ve ever pulled off?
Playing from a seated position with just one hand, I find shots when I’m bridging over a ball to get to the white very difficult because my eye line is blocked, but all match-winning shots or clearances are great!

What do you enjoy most about playing pool?
It’s handy when you’re in a bar and there’s a table, when you’re strapped for cash and you offer a game for a pint, or maybe even a fiver or a tenner. When they see I’m in a wheelchair and play one handed they think they’ll take it easy on me, but once they see I can play, they can’t believe it. I’ve also become friends with some of my childhood heroes which is just surreal!

And what do you like least about it?
Nothing, really, except perhaps the financial side. Cue King Promotions act as my agent so if there’s anyone out there wanting to work in partnership and help sponsor me, please contact them.

How do non-disabled players react to you?
Most people are surprised when they see me play. A few times when I’ve been practising, people have felt awkward wanting to watch but I always encourage people to do so because at the end of the day I’m just a good player who happens to be in a wheelchair.

What makes you angry?
When I feel I haven’t played my best. Plus, local councils, places that don’t have wheelchair access, bar prices, David Cameron, and people who patronise disabled people.

How would you make life better for disabled people, if you were PM?
Prime Minister would be a daunting task! In a perfect world, I’d make every public building wheelchair accessible and make the housing system easier for disabled people by requiring every council-owned property to have flat access and wide doors, especially with my driving!

Who’s your favourite disabled person ever?
Ian Dury and Tanni Grey-Thompson. As a sporting person, what Tanni’s done is nothing short of inspirat­ional. I admire any disabled person who gets up and tries to follow their ambition.

How would you sum yourself up in ten words or fewer?
Determined, motivated, a winner, helpful, approachable, heart of a lion.

Do you have any secret skills or talent?
When I was younger I used to play boccia and represented Yorkshire at boccia and athletics.

• Find out more and follow Matt’s career at matthewlester.com