DUNFERMLINE'S Michaela Tabb was at the front of the cue when it came to talent at pool, but now instead of beating her rivals she's selling tables to them.

Before becoming the world's first female snooker referee, she's still the only woman to have taken charge of the final at the Crucible in Sheffield, she was a European champ at potting balls.

That success now extends to the family-run business as Michaela, owner of Blackball Tables, is now a major distributor of pool tables and accessories.

The company was established in July 2018 and has since expanded to serve multiple segments in the market both in the UK and abroad, including New Zealand.

She said: "We have been very lucky that because of demand, the factory only stayed closed for three weeks in lockdown and delivery drivers were able to continue to work.

"We are now expanding into the rental market which is proving popular with clubs and pubs using coin operated tables in their premises.

"It is so rewarding to be able to continue work in the industry sector that made my sports career.”

Michaela qualified in 2001 to referee on the World Snooker Tour and went on to become the sport’s highest profile female referee, officiating on tour for 14 years.

Her potted history includes being the first female to referee the world snooker final, when John Higgins beat Shaun Murphy in 2009, and she donned the white gloves again for the showpiece match in 2012.

Being a female ref proved to be an advantage for Ronnie O'Sullivan as the Rocket once borrowed a hair grip from Michaela mid-match to keep his then long locks out of his eyes as he lined up a shot.

She regularly travelled the world to officiate at pool tournaments too, such as the Mosconi Cup clashes between Europe and the USA in Las Vegas, and she was also talented on the table.

Before refereeing she played pool to the highest level, representing Scotland and winning a European ladies title, while those cue ball skills run in the family with hubby Ross McInnes a former world champ while their boys, Morgan and Preston, have taken part in a European competition.

However, she did need a little extra help with her plans for Blackball Tables.

With an increased mix of direct customers, corporate and trade clients, Michaela sought assistance from Business Gateway Fife to help formulate a growth strategy for the business.

Her adviser, Samir Rhazali, was able to give access to a wide range of advice and support in accounting, planning and budgeting, as well as developing website and social media platforms.

He said: "After three years of running the business alone, Michaela was struggling to meet demand after the country went into lockdown as there was a big increase in the domestic market too.

"She now has a five-year growth strategy in place which will allow her to continue to develop and grow the business.”

Michaela said: “I am very grateful for the support of Business Gateway Fife and the valuable advice given to me by Samir."

Whether thinking of starting a business or looking to grow or sustain an existing business, contact Business Gateway Fife on 01592 858333 for a variety of advice and support or visit www.businessgatewayfife.com