No-Tier Snooker Society at Congleton Snooker Club is a space for fun, friendship and sporting connection. A world away from the challenges of living with a life-altering condition like dementia.
The club founder was diagnosed with frontaltemporal dementia (FTD) in July 2024 and as a result, lost their heavy goods vehicle (HGV) license leading to retirement at the age of 59. This unexpected change left him feeling directionless, as he realised others might share his sense of uncertainty after receiving a diagnosis that brings a shadow but no clear timeline.
Despite not being a professional snooker player, the founder always found joy in the game. This passion inspired him to create ‘No Tier Snooker Society’ - a snooker club specifically designed for people with FTD or early-onset dementia.
He said: “I was starting to make mistakes at work and becoming increasingly frustrated. I’d successfully run my own business for years and it wasn’t like me. You don’t see a change in yourself. You rely on others to let you know.”
In England, 1 in 3 people with dementia do not have a diagnosis. Diagnosis is vital to give people access to specialist care, treatment and much needed support.
He continued: “After multiple assessments, it was a relief to finally get a diagnosis, but I didn’t want pity. My mantra is ‘don’t tell me how to feel until you’ve walked in my shoes.’
“Snooker has always been a big passion of mine. After struggling to find a suitable support group, I had a light-bulb moment and created my own. I wanted to bring people together in a relaxed, social setting where we could play at our own pace. It is an honour that other families now say it makes a huge difference — not just for the person living with dementia, but for them as carers. There is a real sense of shared understanding, and we are all on the same page.”
The name ‘No-Tier Snooker Society’ carries a dual meaning. Upon diagnosis, people can find themselves in the unknown, surrounded by friends and family who are equally unsure how to engage. Consequently, this can lead to isolation however, in No-Tier, members are equals, free from judgment or labels. 
With this vision and the support of NHS dementia outreach nurse Denise, the group has become a lifeline with people travelling from as far as Alsager and Crewe to attend every Wednesday between 2-4pm.
Denise Parr, who works for local mental health Trust, Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS (CWP) said: “The group is incredible and what is even more incredible is the determination of one person taking their diagnosis and turning it on its head. It is truly inspirational. Within six weeks of starting up, there were five snooker tables being used and families chatting all around the room. It is a support network for everyone.”
“Whilst dementia can affect people of any age, it is important to understand that dementia isn't solely a condition of older adults. Symptoms and support needs can differ from those of older people with dementia and some people early in their journey find there are limited opportunities to connect with others in the same boat or with similar interests.”
Denise used her knowledge of Congleton and local contacts to help the group to get off the ground. She continues: “I’m really pleased to have played a part in setting up the No-Tier Snooker Society and encourage anyone struggling with the same issues to give it a go. Living with or caring for somebody with dementia can be isolating. Peer support is invaluable and can be a huge source of hope, motivation and understanding.”
Local community organisations and businesses continue to rally round, including Westwood Golf Club in Leek who advertises No-Tier Snooker on the third hole of the course, known as ‘the Alps’. The hole was specifically chosen as dementia sufferers have ‘a mountain to climb’. Zesty Digital have also built and hosted the club’s website free of charge.
Summer Snooker Exhibition
No-Tier Snooker Society is also looking forward to welcoming snooker legend Dennis Taylor for their inaugural exhibition on Sunday 8th June at Congleton Snooker Club. The date will also celebrate the 40th anniversary of his World Championship win. As well as making some big breaks, Dennis will be drawing the winner of the fundraising prize draw, which includes a chance to win a luxury Loch Lomond stay.
No Tier Snooker meets every Wednesday, 2-4pm at Congleton Snooker Club. Providing a welcoming and supportive environment for people living with early-onset dementia or FTD, the focus is on camaraderie and connecting with others. Visit www.notiersnooker.co.uk and more information and raffle tickets.
If you are worried about yourself, or someone close to you, the Alzheimer’s Society have created a symptom checklist to help describe symptoms to your GP. Visit www.
