Mark Williams in heart-warming gesture to retiring ITV cameraman after Tour Championship triumph over Ronnie O’Sullivan

MARK WILLIAMS gave his medal to a retiring cameraman in a heart-warming gesture after his Tour Championship victory over Ronnie O’Sullivan.

Three-time world champion Williams, 49, fought back from 5-3 down to clinch seven frames on the bounce and beat O’Sullivan 10-5 in Manchester.

Mark Williams placed his winners medal around the neck of a retiring cameraman

Cameraman Duncan Richmond received the honour from the three-time world champion

Richmond was visibly beaming after being given the medal

After the match, he was presented with a winners medal following a career-first Tour Championship triumph.

But he immediately placed it around the neck of cameraman Duncan Richmond – who beamed after receiving the honour.

Richmond retired on Sunday evening after 44 years behind the camera.

An incredible 27 of those years were spent working on snooker – a stint that stretches back to before both Williams and O’Sullivan won their first world titles.

It was an emotional moment for all involved as those on social media were quick to react.

One said: “Congratulations to Mark Williams winning the snooker Tour Championship and soundly beating the GOAT Ronnie O’Sullivan.

“And what a gesture to give his winning medal to the retiring cameraman Duncan Richmond .”

Another added: “Lovely touch .”

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A third replied: “How lovely to see someone who is always behind the scenes to take centre stage even for a brief moment!

“Happy retirement @PapaD1000, we will miss you x.”

And a fourth said: “It’s lovely that you’ve given someone who plays a big part behind the scenes the recognition they deserve!”