The Crucible holds tribute to former player and commentator John Virgo

• World Championship venue has a minute’s applause

• Voice of snooker died in February aged 79

A minute’s applause was paid in tribute to John Virgo, who died in February aged 79, as the World Snooker Championship got under way at the Crucible in Sheffield.

Virgo, who won the UK Championship in 1979, enjoyed a successful playing career but was best known for his broadcasting.