Snooker legend Willie Thorne is to undergo chemotherapy after being diagnosed with leukaemia.

Thorne was runner-up in the UK Championship in 1985 and experienced a career-high ranking of seventh in the world.

He retired in 2001 and is now a BBC commentator.

He announced the news on Twitter, saying: "I realise everybody is having a tough time. Mine's just got worse - I've been diagnosed with leukaemia.

"I'm devastated. Start chemotherapy tomorrow. I'm in Spain where the health care is hopefully second to none - love to you all. Willie."

The world of snooker broke out in well-wishes for one of its most popular players and leading the way was legend Jimmy White.

He wrote: "Gutted to hear about the great WT. Stay strong mate."

While player Joe Perry wrote: "Devastating news! Thoughts and prayers are with you WT"