WHEN it comes to raising money for charity, pool player Phil Steven certainly has a lot of balls – 5,000 to be precise.

The caring dad is using his love of the game to help St Vincent’s Hospice by attempting a marathon potting session.

Phil, 51, is attempting to pot 5,000 pool balls in just 24 hours, which will mean playing a staggering 334 frames non-stop.

And, after several weeks practising on a 20-year-old pool table in his garage, he reckons he is on cue to meet the challenge.

“I’ve always loved playing pool so it seemed the ideal way to raise money for St Vincent’s,” explained Phil. “I used to play a lot with my dad and, any time I go out, I’m always looking to see if there’s a pool table so I can play a few games.”

Midton mechanic Phil decided to arrange the charity event after a friend’s wife died at the Howwood hospice.

“I know a few people whose family and friends received great care and support at St Vincent’s,” added Phil. “They do amazing work there and I wanted to help.”

Phil contacted Midton Bowling Club, where he is a member, and was in the pink when they agreed to host the challenge.

He said: “I’ll be starting at 5.30am on Saturday, December 10, and will keep going until the same time on Sunday morning.

“There are 15 balls in each frame, which means I’ll have to complete each one in a maximum of four-and-a-half minutes if I’m going to reach my 5,000 target in 24 hours.”

Phil originally hoped to raise £1,000 for the hospice but, so far, more than £1,600 has been pledged.

He said: “Some people are sponsoring me at a penny per ball, while others are making a donation. I am looking for corporate sponsorship which means that, for a donation of £100, I’ll include a company badge on my waistcoat.”

Laura McDade, events fundraiser at the hospice, is full of praise for Phil’s efforts.

She said: “Fundraising events like the pool ball challenge play a vital role in supporting the work of St Vincent’s Hospice.

“We greatly appreciate the effort Phil has put in to organising this event. Everyone here wishes him the best of luck.”

To sponsor Phil, pick up a form at Midton Bowling Club or the Railway Inn.