He has been added to the line-up for the World Seniors Snooker Tour's British Open

Derby is set to welcome snooker royalty this December, with Ronnie 'The Rocket' O'Sullivan set to play at a city centre venue.

The snooker player has been added to the line-up for the World Seniors Snooker (WSS) Tour's British Open at Vaillant Live on December 27 and 28.

Widely regarded as the greatest player of all time, "The Rocket" is a seven-time World Champion and added the World Seniors Championship title to his list of achievements earlier this year.

He joins a line-up which also includes Jimmy White, defending champion Joe Perry and 12-time World Women’s Snooker champion Reanne Evans.

1997 world champion Ken Doherty, former UK champion Stephen Maguire and former World Seniors champion Mark Davis will also feature.

O’Sullivan said: "Derby was always an annual visit on the tour when I was first playing, and the Assembly Rooms was a great venue – Vaillant Live looks even better!

"I am looking forward to going back there for the British Seniors Open this Christmas. They’ve always loved their snooker in Derby."

Jason Francis, chairman of WSS, added: "Last year was the return of snooker to the city and look how Derby welcomed us in person and over 4 million watched on Channel 5.

Just imagine what it’s going to be like this year with the World Seniors champion in town… I think a lot of people will be adding to their wish list for Christmas presents today."

Limited tickets for the event remain available.