Hazel Irvine's life away from snooker - husband, secret wedding and baby at 43
Hazel Irvine has been a familiar face to sports fans for decades, but she likes to keep her personal life out of the spotlight - as she commentates today's snooker World Championship, The Mirror takes a look at her life off screen
Hazel Irvine has been one of the voices of the BBC for over three decades and has been the face of the snooker coverage since 2000. The Scottish presenter is considered a trailblazer as one of the first females to host sports broadcasts on the BBC.
While fans of the presenter are aware that she tends to keep her private life under wraps, there are a few lesser-known facts about the TV host. Hazel was born in St Andrews, Scotland and pursued a degree in History of Art at university. However, her love for sports was evident as she actively participated in her university's netball, golf and athletics teams.
In a 2019 interview with the Mail, Hazel shared: "As a child, I spent my pocket money on stickers for an Olympics sticker book.
"I had a very happy childhood doing sport and outdoor stuff. My dad, Bill, made this half-size snooker table for my brother and me as kids, and Mum crocheted the pockets!".
It wasn't until 1988, however, that the 59 year old embarked on her career in radio and television, guest hosting the 1988 Olympics and the 1990 World Cup.
In a surprising move to many, Hazel married her long-term partner in 2008. Despite having been together for a significant period, it seemed the timing finally felt right for them at the age of 43.
Preferring a more personal touch, the couple said their 'I dos' in a cosy Scottish setting, surrounded by friends and family. At her nuptials, Hazel joyfully confirmed that she and her beau were "very happy".
Her statement noted: 'I can confirm that she married her long-term partner a few months ago. It was a small and very private affair, and she and her husband are very happy. She wants to keep all the details private."
The next year brought more joy for Hazel as she revealed at a London charity sports quiz that they were expecting a baby. She playfully informed the crowd about her "own credit crunch looming".
Elaborating on this, she shared: "My clothes are already feeling the squeeze. My husband and I have a new arrival coming in the spring - which is going to be a drain on my own profits."
The family, formerly of Scotland, has made the move to London, where they're surely living life to the fullest with plenty of sports and activities!
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