Snooker ace Alex Higgins in hospital

Snooker star Alex Higgins has been admitted to hospital, it was revealed today.

The former world champion has fought a long battle with throat cancer but his condition is understood to be comfortable.

The 61-year-old from Northern Ireland, known as the Hurricane by his fans, has suffered declining health in recent years. He is in the Belfast City Hospital after being admitted yesterday.

A hospital spokesman said: "We will be making no comment on Mr Higgins' condition."

Friends and family have feared for the controversial Belfast player since he was diagnosed with throat cancer over ten years ago. He is in remission but its toll on his body is evident in his drawn and thin appearance.

Living in sheltered housing on the Donegall Road in Belfast, Mr Higgins is considered to be one of the finest snooker players of all time. He has had long-term problems with alcohol and smoking since winning the world title in 1972 and 1982.

Despite his numerous fights and rows with referees over the years, he still plays the game regularly and appeared at the Irish Professional Championship in 2005 and 2006.

Higgins has been an inspiration for many of today's best players, including Ken Doherty, Jimmy White and Ronnie O'Sullivan.