Sheikh Saleh bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Chairman of the Fujairah Department of Industry and Economy, was yesterday awarded a badge of honour by the World Billiards Union for his efforts in promoting the game in the UAE, Gulf and the Middle East.

Ian Anderson, Chairman of the World Billiards Union, handed over the honorary badge to Sheikh Al Sharqi who has helped in supporting sports activities in the emirate, especially through the successful organisation of the Fujairah International Billiards Championship in 2002 and the World Classic Billiards Championship last year.

Anderson highlighted the great importance of Fujairah and the UAE to the World Billiards Union after Fujairah hosted the world championship of billiards in two successive years.

The honouring ceremony, which was held at Sheikh Saleh's Madhab Palace, was attended by Khalid Al Mazouri, head of the High Organising Committee of World Billiards Championship, Ahmed Ibrahim, Director of the championship and members of the organising sub-committees.