Date of birth: 17/12/69
Home town: Kilkenny, Ireland

Mason has climbed back up the rankings after more than a year out of the sport which was forced upon him when he was sent to prison for aggravated burglary.

Long talked of - particularly by the legendary Eric Bristow - as a future world champion, 'Mace the Ace' has responded well since his return to the circuit, reaching the quarter-finals at last year's UK Open and World Grand Prix.

Twice a semi-finalist at the Circus Tavern, this Bristol-born star made the quarter-finals of this year's World Matchplay to show he is capable of causing a stir at this level.