'I went from the streets to the snooker table'

Terry Teeman playing at Woking Snooker Centre

A man from Surrey who has experienced homelessness is a finalist in awards that recognise achievements in the community.

Terry Teeman, from Woking, was homeless for several years in and around Guildford but has now become a well-known figure in local snooker and cricket.

He is a Bravery finalist in the BBC Radio Sussex and Surrey Make A Difference Awards.

Mr Teeman said: "Bravery is when someone has a physical or mental reason that things are tougher for them but gets through it, gets past it, and makes a difference.”

Mr Teeman took up social umpiring at Guildford Cricket Club

Mr Teeman rebuilt his life after what he described as some "silly decisions" that left him homeless.

The organisations Guildford Safe Haven and Guildford Action helped him with his mental health and to find accommodation.

He said: “When people are homeless, there are assumptions made, like: 'They’re work shy, it’s completely their fault.'"

Mr Teeman said people would walk past him on the street and say: “Why don’t you just go and get a job?”

He explained that simple things are difficult when you’re homeless, such as charging your phone, plus cooking and eating which means keeping healthy is difficult.

His physical health is still impacted by the time he spent on the streets.

If you, or someone you know, have been affected by mental health issues or self-harm, you can visit the BBC Action Line.

After his life stabilised, Mr Teeman returned to two of his lifelong loves: cricket and snooker.

He took up social umpiring at Guildford Cricket Club where he said only a few people knew he was homeless but helped rebuild his confidence.

He also returned to Woking Snooker Centre to start playing again.

Mr Teeman has now set up an organisation to sponsor snooker players and run tournaments.

He said: "Snookerz helps talented amateurs who may not be able to afford to compete otherwise. I've worked with local businesses to sponsor them."

The BBC Radio Sussex and Surrey Make A Difference Awards were founded 13 years ago and during the pandemic, it became a pan-BBC local radio initiative to celebrate local heroes.

Founder and deputy managing editor for the South and South-East, Mark Carter said: “Terry typifies so many of the people we meet who just get on and do, without expecting anything in return."