Snooker icon John Virgo wants to revive BBC Big Break with 'genius' Jim Davidson

John Virgo wants to bring back smash hit BBC snooker quiz Big Break.

The former cueman - currently commentating on the sport’s world championship - reckons the snooker show would be as popular now as it was in the 90s when it attracted 13.9million viewers.

He said he would be willing to team up once again with comic Jim Davidson to rekindle their "incredible" presenting partnership that spawned 222 episodes spanning 14 series and 17 Christmas specials.

Jim, 68, has since become a victim of cancel culture after cracking controversial gags about women, ethnic minorities, gay people and disabled people in X-rated stand-up shows.

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Though "northern socialist" John said it was "understandable" the Cockney Tory comic had a "black mark" against his name he reckons they could still make a prime time telly comeback.

The pair - who also appeared in pantos together - no longer speak regularly but share "a warmth that I don’t get with many people" whenever they bump into each other, Virgo said.

He added: "Jim is a comic genius.

"Yet he can’t appear on television because he has a black mark against his name.

"It’s understandable.

"I just feel it’s a waste of a talent.’’

John, 76, said he would love to see Big Break - axed by the BBC in 2002 - resurrected to showcase a sport that is battling to stay relevant.

Before the show he’d had his house repossessed as his earnings from the sport dried up.

"It was life-changing," he said.

"We replaced Question of Sport in their slot and the viewing figures were better than they had from the first day.

"We were up against Blind Date and we were getting as many viewers.

"It was incredible.’"

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