When you hear the word poker, Aberdeen isn't the first place that jumps out at you. However, with the profile of Scottish poker rising every day, Scotland's third largest city (yeah, I can use Wikipedia too!) are keen to get in on the act with their own series of poker festivities.
The International Casino in Aberdeen boasts various different tournaments throughout the week, but the start of this month saw them launch the North East Poker Championship (aka International Poker Masters).
Played over the 2nd and 3rd of November, many of Scotland's most talented players took to the felt to battle it out for the prestigious title, but once the dust had settled and the smoke cleared, it was Kemnay businessman Wayne Cumming who reigned supreme in the Granite City.
Despite only taking up the game 18 months ago, Wayne outlasted his opponents through a gruelling 14 hours of poker to take gold and, perhaps more importantly, the lion's share of the £11,500 pot.
Whilst Wayne was said to be "over the moon" with his performance, cardroom manager John Taylor commented, "I am delighted that one of our local players has triumphed in what was the biggest poker game ever in Aberdeen."
If you would like a piece of the action, then be sure to visit the International Casino in Aberdeen at the next opportunity.
The address is as follows:
47-49 Market Street
Aberdeen
AB11 5PZ
tel: 01224 593400
fax: 01224 593401
email: manager@theinternationalcasino.com