Disabled snooker player David Church ‘blown away’ by donations

“On Wednesday I’d accepted it probably wasn’t going to happen,” he said.

“But then my phone went crazy where people had seen the story online.

“I’m just blown away.”

Church, who was born with Moebius syndrome – a rare condition that affects facial muscles and eye movement – said he had recently got engaged and was due to become father in April.

He said he would spend the money on future tournaments, flights and accommodation.

“It takes a lot of pressure off me personally and a quite a bit off my mental health to be honest.

“I’d like to think I’ve put the work in – on and off the table – and I deserve a bit of luck here and there.

“I’m just chuffed to bits.”