Snooker’s Coral Shoot Out will be staged in Watford for the first time next year.

Watford Colosseum will host the professional snooker tournament for the first time with 128 of the best players competing in the event.

Since it was first staged in 2011, the Shoot Out features a one-frame knock out format with all matches lasting a maximum of ten minutes, using a shot clock of 15 seconds for the first five minutes and ten seconds for the last five.

Top stars like Ronnie O’Sullivan, Mark Selby, Jimmy White and Judd Trump have competed in the event in previous years.

Last season, Finland’s Robin Hull beat Luca Brecel in the final.

And this season the tournament will become a world ranking event for the first time, so every pound earned will count towards a player’s ranking tally.

That means the event is extended from 64 players to 128 and will last four days instead of three. It will be televised by ITV4 and take place from February 23 to 26.

Ivan Hirschowitz said on behalf of World Snooker: “In recent years the Shoot Out has become one of the most keenly anticipated tournament on the calendar.

"Every match provides thrills and spills and the crowds are encouraged to get involved and support their heroes.

"This is a phenomenal chance to see many of the best players and enjoy the thrill of fast and furious snooker.

“We’re delighted to bring the event to Watford for the first time to the excellent Colosseum venue and to give supporters in the area the chance to see live snooker.”

To buy tickets, visit: www.worldsnooker.com/tickets.