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Snooker's second biggest ranking tournament, the UK Championship, will be staged at the Telford International Centre for the third consecutive year in 2009.

The tournament will run from December 5 to 13.

The UK Championship dates back to 1977 and is considered among snooker's most important and prestigious events, having been won by most of the sport's star names such as Alex Higgins, Jimmy White and Steve Davis as well as Stephen Hendry, Ronnie O'Sullivan and John Higgins.

Shaun Murphy beat Hong Kong's Marco Fu last year in a gripping final, the Irthlingborough cueman prevailing 10-9 after a tense deciding frame.

A World Snooker spokesman said: "We have been delighted with the success of the tournament at Telford over the past two years and we are looking forward to returning in December.

"The fans in the Shropshire area have shown their enthusiasm for snooker as the crowds for the event have been very strong.

"The International Centre has proved a fitting location for one of our biggest events, and many of the players have also given their endorsement to the facilities at the venue and the atmosphere in the playing arena."

Telford's top player Adrian Gunnell, the world number 42, will compete in the qualifying rounds, to be staged at Pontin's, Prestatyn and needs to win two matches to get to the televised stages in his home town.

"It's terrific news that the tournament is coming back to Telford," said Gunnell.

"The event has been well supported here and it helps put the town on the map. It's a central location and the players like the venue, so it's good for everyone.

"It gives me extra inspiration in the qualifiers to try to get to the venue so there will be no lack of motivation for me. I just want to get back to winning ways next season and play the way I know I can."

Eurosport