The European Pool Championships, last held here in 2005, are to return to the Island later this month with one major addition to the programme.
The week-long event will also incorporate the first ever inter-continental pool challenge between Europe and Africa.
Martyn Quayle MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, said, "The European Championships were voted a tremendous hit when they were last staged here in 2005 and the influx of visitors from different parts of the world will provide a welcome boost for the 'shoulder' months of the season.
"Hosting the first staging of a major inter-continental event is an added bonus and the television coverage on Sky TV will show viewers just what the Isle of Man has to offer."
So far, a total of 500 players have entered the European Championships, with a further 300 officials and spectators also expected.
Teams have been confirmed from Spain, Northern Ireland, Eire, France, Shetlands, Gibraltar, England, Scotland and Wales as well as the Isle of Man.
Ross McInnes, a director of Dunfermline-based International Sports Promotions, explained that after discussions with the Department of Tourism and Leisure, he had put in a bid to hold the European Championships at the Villa Marina and the success of the tournament four years ago had persuaded the ruling body to accept the bid.
Shortly afterwards came news of an approach to the European organisation from South Africa for it to be allowed to take part in the Championships.
This wasn’t possible because of geographical considerations but the idea was put forward of an inter-continent ‘test’ series and rules were drawn-up.
Mr. McInnes confirmed, "This is a brand new competition and has created huge interest within the international pool fraternity.
"Five-member teams will compete at men’s ladies, seniors, under 23 and under 18 level in a series of five matches. The first side to win three tests will be the winners.
"This really is a major boost for world pool and the Isle of Man will forever be remembered as the place where it all started."
The Department of Tourism and Leisure is a major supporter of the two events.
Department Member Graham Cregeen MHK will officially open proceedings at 11.00am on 27th September at a ceremony in the Villa Marina. The event then continues until October 2nd.
Categories to be contested in the European Championships are: Men’s and Ladies' A and B team events; over 40s team; Men’s, Ladies and Senior individual competitions; together with team and individual events for players with learning difficulties.
The Championships are also to be featured live on CueSports TV, the largest live internet sports channel.
Mr. McInnes - husband of professional referee Michaela Tabb, who refereed this year’s World Snooker final - paid tribute to local businesses in the Isle of Man which have rallied round to offer financial support despite the current economic situation.
He said without their assistance the Championships could not have taken place.
As well as the Department of Tourism, other major supporters include the Sefton Group, Sleepwell Hotels, The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, Trade Distribution, A1 Taxis and Manx Radio.
Spectators are welcome to attend the Championships, which have a busy schedule from 10.00am until around 10.00pm each day.
Admission is free of charge. Finals day is Friday 2nd October when the event draws to a close at approximately 7.30pm.
