His goal is to become snooker’s youngest world champion and break Steven Hendry’s 22 year record.

So Peter Devlin’s victory at the English Association of Snooker & Billiards Junior Under-18 play-offs has brought him a step closer.

The 15-year-old has qualified for the Premier Tour by winning the event and now one level below the professional ranks.

The Leyton potter had to use his skill to overcome Sam Betts 2-1. England player Betts had made a 71 break but Devlin’s safety game enabled him to take victory.

It was a case of a winner takes all final with the victor taking the Premier Tour spot. In the first frame Mackenzie Haigh opened up a 40 point lead but Devlin fought back with a break of 41 and a 25 clearance to win.

He then made 30 in the second frame and secured a 2-0 victory to win the tournament.

The 15-year-old, who practices at the Hurricane Room, Walthamstow, has been tipped to achieve his objective by his coach Josh Raja.

“I have been saying since the age of ten that he can take Stephen Hendry’s record – he just has that special something.

“It is my opinion but I think he can do it because he is that good. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him break Hendry’s record of winning seven world championships.

“But he is also very humble about things. There have been bigger names than me who have wanted to be his coach.

“People who have represented England have been interested but he has stayed with me. It shows that he has got integrity.”

Raja continued: “Peter used to freestyle like Ronnie O’Sullivan does but then we decided to focus more on control rather than freestyle. I particularly think that he has a safety game which is nothing like anyone else around here.”

After leaving school this summer Devlin will spend around three months practicing before embarking on the Premier Tour in October.

Raja believes that while it may take a little time for Devlin to get up to pace, he will show his true ability in the second half of the season.

Devlin may have impressed in winning his regional event but Raja admitted he has shown his when he has had time to prepare for matches.

“During the Easter half term we had plenty of time to work on things. He played a match at Upton Park during that time and showed his true potential because he made seven centuries. It just shows what he can do when he isn’t tired.”

He added: “Some many wonder why he wasn’t had a lot of success at national level. There are a few lads that are ahead of him but the reason they are in that position is because they are able to practice at school. Peter doesn’t so they have a head start.

“They are a lot more comfortable at the table because they have had more time practicing.

“However, I think Peter will be able to catch them up particularly quickly because he is just as good as them.”

If anyone is interested in sponsoring Devlin they should contact Mr Raja on 07866529797.