The last 16 draw for the National CIU Billiards Championships has been released, with some interesting clashes in store.

The first round had seen 32 entries, drawn against opponents from their own regions where possible. This meant that the 11 North eastern entries would see five derby matches, with one unlucky person been drawn against someone further afield. That person was Mark Graham, representing the Blytholme, drawn against Julian Hodge at the Broad Oak WM Bowling Club in Huddersfield. In the closest game of the round, a break of 89 from Mark wasn't enough to see him go through, losing out 500-492 in the end.

Last years beaten finalist Simon Snee, also from Blytholme, had a 500-356 win at the Western Social club against Alf Nolan, whilst former champion Tony MacKinder, yet another Blytholme player, defeated Peter Reeve (Acklam Garden City) 500-309. Darren Kell was in superb form, making breaks of 128, 78 and 73 unfinished against John Sinclair of Northern Social Club, Ashington, whilst Billy Bousfield received a walkover following John Hartley's withdrawal.

The draw for the next round must be completed by 23rd November, with Darren Kell getting a home draw against Billy Bousfield, and Simon Snee at home to Tony James of Throckley Union Jack. Tony MacKinder travels to Huddersfield to play Julian Hodge, whilst current champion, ex-Teessider Jack Hedley (Maidenhead) faces a Middlesbrough reunion, drawn away to Martin Goodwill (Chippenham West End Club).