Kirkland says snooker clubs across the country are having to navigate tricky times just now, as there is a limit on how many people they can accommodate at any one time.
“Discussions around business rates haven’t been kind to us,” he says.
“Snooker clubs are one of those venues that have to have big spaces, but that doesn’t necessarily mean big capacity in terms of people.
“The World Championships is one of our busiest times of the year, and without it being at the Crucible it just wouldn’t be like that.”
Kirkland adds that as a snooker fan himself, he is delighted the World Championship is set to stay in Sheffield.
“I’ve been going to the Crucible for the last 30 years,” he explains.
“I go to Ally Pally [where the Masters is held in January] and other tournaments, but the Crucible is special.
“It’s snooker’s Wembley, and having it here puts Sheffield on the map.”
