Gunnell is ranked 42 in the world

Telford's Adrian Gunnell admits the return of the UK Championship in his hometown is an added incentive for him.

The tournament, which Gunnell will have to qualify for, will be staged at the International Centre for the third consecutive year.

"It gives me extra inspiration in the qualifiers to try to get to the venue so there will be no lack of motivation for me," Gunnell told World Snooker.

"I just want to get back to winning ways," the world number 42 added.

Gunnell will compete for a place in the Championship by playing in the qualifying rounds at Prestatyn in November.

"The event has been well supported here and it helps put the town on the map," Gunnell added.

The UK Championships were first held in Telford in 2007 and this year's tournament will run from 5-13 December.

Last year's champion Shaun Murphy beat Hong Kong's Marco Fu 10-9 to win the title.

A World Snooker spokesman said: "We have been delighted with the success of the tournament at Telford over the past two years and we are looking forward to returning in December.

"The fans in the Shropshire area have shown their enthusiasm for snooker as the crowds for the event have been very strong. The International Centre has proved a fitting location for one of our biggest events."

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